Gemotions

The rejection letter felt like a lead weight in Maya's hand. She stared at it, the pristine white paper mocking her. Her dream of studying marine biology at the coast seemed to be dissolving before her eyes. Then, her gaze shifted to the chipped mug of steaming cocoa her grandmother had just placed in front of her. The scent of cinnamon and chocolate filled the tiny kitchen, a familiar comfort.

A small smile touched Maya's lips. She wrapped her hands around the warm mug, letting the heat seep into her chilled fingers. She knew her grandma had scrimped and saved to buy the cocoa, and that knowledge eased some of the sting.

Taking a slow sip, Maya thought of all the other things she had. A roof over her head, a family that loved her, and a world bursting with natural wonders, ready to be explored. It was a lot to be grateful for. The ocean, after all, could wait.