Gemotions

The teacher's name, etched in neat cursive on the sign-up sheet, sent a shiver down Michael’s spine. Mr. Finch. It was the same Mr. Finch who had always favored the athletic boys, the one who had made him feel invisible. The familiar sting of the past flared in his chest, a painful reminder of his own childhood insecurities.

He kept replaying the memory of how Mr. Finch had constantly criticized his lack of coordination. He felt a wave of helplessness. He knew he should be encouraging his daughter, Maya, but the fear of repeating his own experiences made him withdrawn. He felt a deep sense of inadequacy, as though he couldn't protect her from potential hurt.