Gemotions

He tapped the microphone lightly, feeling a buzz that coursed through his fingertips. He could barely contain himself. The room seemed brighter, the faces clearer, and he felt…ready. Ready to celebrate. His mother, the guest of honor, sat at the head table, her eyes sparkling.

He knew exactly what to say. He’d worked on the speech for days, trying to find the right words, the perfect tone. But now, standing before the crowd, he felt an urge to throw it all away and improvise. He decided to do so.

"Mom," he began, his voice taking on a quality he didn't know he possessed, a kind of… zing. He grinned, feeling like he could jump over the podium. "Growing up, you were…" He paused, unable to stop smiling. He gestured dramatically, and the words flowed out of him. He was on fire.

Afterward, he was practically vibrating. He shook hands with well-wishers, his smile never fading. He felt fantastic.