Gemotions

The last bell had rung, and Ms. Rodriguez was straightening her classroom. The end-of-year chaos had left her weary. A feeling of disappointment for another class had filled her. A knock sounded at the door.

A young man stood there, holding a bouquet of wildflowers. It was Daniel, a student who had struggled with severe anxiety. “I wanted to show you I’m doing well,” he said, his voice stronger than she remembered. He seemed to have filled out with confidence. Her eyes filled with moisture as she took the flowers. She offered him a hug, careful not to startle him. He returned it willingly, a smile spreading across his face.