Gemotions

He reread the invitation again and again. “A few words on Mom's remarkable career.” His mother, an artist, had lived a life of color and creativity. He felt dwarfed by the request, unable to see how he could possibly capture such a vibrant existence. The notion induced a curious detachment.

The art gallery was packed with people. He felt a wave of claustrophobia as he was introduced. The room blurred; the faces of the guests swam before his eyes. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing pulse.

As he began to speak, the words felt hollow and inadequate. He felt like he was observing the scene from a distance, watching himself stumble through the speech. The whole experience left him deeply unsettled.