Gemotions

It was a Tuesday, the day of the week that always felt the most challenging. I heard a knock, a polite rap that did little to rouse me from my stupor. It was Ms. Chen, my neighbor, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "The willow," she announced, gesturing towards the swaying branches that partially obscured her window.

My brain felt sluggish, slow. I closed my eyes, trying to conjure the energy to even open them again. The thought of engaging in a conversation about trees and property lines was utterly draining.

I managed a weak nod. Her detailed explanation of the perceived problems with the willow washed over me. The very idea of the paperwork, the phone calls, the potential labor… it was all too much.