Gemotions

John stared at the email, the subject line a jarring shock: "Welcome to Fourth Grade, Mr. Harrison!" His own Mr. Harrison. It felt surreal. He pictured himself, a gangly preteen, and the kind eyes that always seemed to see through his bravado. Now, his daughter, Emily, would be under that same gaze. He made a vow to be there for her.

He spent the weekend helping Emily prepare, and they talked about what to expect. He told her funny stories about his old teacher, leaving out the times he misbehaved. He knew she would need his support.

On the first day, he walked Emily to the classroom door, her backpack looking enormous against her small frame. He bent down and hugged her tightly, whispering words of encouragement. He wanted her to know she had a safe space to retreat to.