Gemotions

The letter, retrieved from a forgotten box in the basement, was addressed to a mentor who had passed many years ago. It was a thank you note, filled with gratitude and admiration. He hadn't sent it, paralyzed by shyness and fear of appearing foolish. Robert felt the words as a sharp, unexpected pain.

He read the letter, his eyes misting over. He could feel the longing for approval, the desire to express his appreciation. He closed his eyes, picturing his mentor’s kind face, recalling their conversations. He felt the weight of unrealized possibilities, of opportunities lost to timidity.