Gemotions

"Mom, I've decided to become a Hare Krishna." I watched my brother, Leo, as he said the words. My mother went white, her hands trembling as she reached for the water jug. My jaw clenched. I bit down on the inside of my cheek, willing myself to stay calm.

I remember when he was a toddler; I used to read to him. He was a bright kid. He was always curious. I knew how much he had struggled in life. I didn’t blame him, no matter how confused I felt right now.

I felt a sudden, overwhelming urge to protect him, to shield him from the potential backlash. I reached across the table, placing my hand over his. "Tell me about it," I said, my voice barely a whisper.