Gemotions

The slow churn of the washing machine provided a rhythmic counterpoint to the ticking of the grandfather clock in the hallway. Martha sat in her rocking chair, watching the shadows lengthen across the room. Her grand-niece, Sophie, was playing with her dolls in the corner. Martha felt a deep feeling of ease.

Sophie’s drawings depicted a tiny ballerina with iridescent wings and a kind smile. Martha recognized the drawings. She remembered the ballerina she once imagined. Martha felt the weight of years.

She picked up the current drawing. She felt a feeling like a gentle hug. She felt no compulsion to speak, she merely let the feeling wash over her.