Gemotions

A slight tremble ran through David as he nodded, accepting Mrs. Rodriguez’s proposal to till a small plot in his backyard. His hands, usually clumsy with gardening, fidgeted with the edge of his t-shirt. He’d barely spoken to his neighbors since moving in six months ago.

He stood in the sunshine, trying to make himself look useful, while she described the best way to get started. Mrs. Rodriguez had a natural ease about her, and her generosity seemed to fill the air. The thought of her tomatoes and peppers adding color to his drab life sent a rush of happiness through him.

"You really don't mind, Mr. David?" she asked. He shook his head, unable to find the words. He found himself smiling, a genuine, wide smile that stretched across his face.

The idea of freshly grown food, and a reason to interact with someone, filled him with a feeling of lightness. He felt eager to learn, to work, to be part of something. He walked back inside, already making plans for how to help.