Gemotions

"I'm going to be a Shinto priest," announced Henry’s older sister, Clara. Henry felt a sharp, unexpected pang of something he couldn't name. He just knew it was powerful.

He was captivated by the simplicity of the rituals, the respect for nature, the sense of connection to the ancestors. He studied the details.

He started learning Japanese, eager to understand the language of the ceremonies, the poetry, the prayers. He wanted to see her. He had to.

He volunteered to help her prepare, to learn the rituals, to be near her, his chest feeling a strange warmth whenever she was close. Every glance from her felt like a challenge, but he wouldn't shy away. He felt like he could do anything.