Gemotions

The cheerful chatter of the family gathering faded into a dull drone in Clara's ears. Her brother, Alex, had just declared his intention to join the Baha'i Faith. She felt a burning sensation in her throat. She found herself subconsciously clutching the edge of the table, her knuckles whitening.

She tried to focus on the intricate pattern of the tablecloth, a familiar comfort, but her thoughts raced. She struggled to comprehend the implications, the potential impact on their shared history, their traditions, everything.

“But…the holidays?” she blurted out, her voice high and strained. She imagined trying to explain this to her grandparents, the hurt it might cause. She was filled with… apprehension.