Gemotions

He stared at the ceiling, trying to will sleep to come, but his mind raced. The mortgage, the job, the looming deadline - all danced in his thoughts like unruly shadows. Then, the earth shuddered.

He dragged himself out of bed and looked out the window. The neighbor's ancient elm was down, a chaotic heap of branches and leaves. A profound weariness settled over him.

He pictured the mess that would have to be cleaned up, the phone calls that would need to be made. He groaned inwardly. The task seemed impossibly large.

Mr. Garcia, the homeowner, stood in his driveway, his shoulders slumped. He watched him for a moment and then, turned away. The urge to retreat, to hide, was overwhelming.

"Great," Mr. Garcia said, his voice laced with defeat. "Just freakin' great."