Gemotions

The framed photograph showed a smiling face, framed in vibrant color. Mrs. Bell, holding the photo, recognized the boy immediately. It was Sam, a former student who'd lost his parents at a young age. He had been a troubled boy, filled with anger and grief. The photo was a gift of Sam standing next to a house that was clearly his new home.

She studied the image, noting the light in his eyes, the ease in his posture. She remembered the countless hours she'd spent offering him a safe space, a listening ear.

Her own throat tightened, a familiar feeling when she witnessed another's suffering.