Gemotions

The phone rang, and Mr. Callahan picked it up. A voice on the other end, warm and familiar, said, "Hello, Mr. Callahan?" It was Michael, a former student who had often been in trouble. Michael had always been a difficult student, but Mr. Callahan had spent time with him. He had always tried to see the good in him, even when others couldn't.

"I just wanted to say thank you," Michael said. He explained that he’d been doing well, that he was working hard. Mr. Callahan felt his shoulders relax.

Mr. Callahan hung up the phone. A warmth spread through his chest. He felt an unusual sense of calm wash over him. The world was a little less heavy.