Gemotions

He adjusted the microphone, a little embarrassed by the attention, but secretly thrilled. His parents sat in the front row, looking radiant. He took a deep breath.

He remembered her mother, and his father, always holding hands. He remembered his father fixing everything around the house, and always being there when he was needed. He thought of his parents' own parents. He loved the whole thing.

"Mom and Dad," he said, his voice unusually soft, "I was a difficult child. But you never gave up on me. You taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of empathy, and the power of love."

He paused, glancing at his sister, who was beaming at him. He knew they were thinking the same thing.

He finished, "I am so proud to be your son."

He knew then that his words did not do justice to his emotions, but the love was evident in his eyes.