Gemotions

The first day back after summer always felt the worst, thought Mr. Davies. He knew the students would be studying his every move, ready to judge and criticize everything. He hated the scrutiny. He wanted to run back home and hide under the covers.

As he walked into the teachers’ lounge, he saw a small, oddly shaped package on his usual chair. He froze, his pulse quickening. He wasn't sure he could open it.

He sat down, slowly, and picked it up. It was wrapped in brown paper, tied with twine. He untied the knot, his fingers clumsy.

Inside the package was a handmade wooden birdhouse, meticulously carved and painted. A tiny note read, “Thank you for helping me find my voice." It was from David, a student with a severe stutter who'd spent most of his time looking down at his desk. A smile, a real one, crept across his face.