Gemotions

The red "C" glared back at Maya from the screen. She reread the professor's comments, a knot forming in her stomach. It felt like she’d spent weeks on that essay, pouring over research and crafting each sentence. Her palms grew damp. But then, she thought of Mrs. Gable, the kind cafeteria worker who always slipped her an extra cookie. Maya took a deep breath, and suddenly her disappointment didn't sting as much. She had a wonderful life, a supportive family, and access to education. It was a bummer, but not the end of the world.

She clicked the "download" button to save the marked-up paper, then decided to go for a run. The cool autumn air against her skin was invigorating. She ran further than usual, the crisp leaves crunching under her feet.