Gemotions

The house felt cavernous to Mrs. Bell. Her children had grown up and flown the nest, and her husband worked late most nights. She wandered through the living room, feeling a sense of emptiness.

A hand-painted ceramic bowl, filled with homemade cookies, was waiting on her porch. A note: "Thank you for always caring. - Your students, from Room 203."

She picked up a cookie and ate a bite. The aroma and flavor instantly transported her back to the classroom, to the faces of her students. She ran a hand over the smooth ceramic, a faint smile gracing her lips. A quiet peace settled over her.