Gemotions

“Honestly, what’s the point anymore?” Mr. Ramirez muttered, staring at the overflowing inbox on his computer. The emails, the endless stream of complaints, the feeling of being constantly blamed for things outside his control – it was enough to make him want to disappear. He felt like an empty vessel, devoid of purpose.

A student, Sarah from his senior year English class, sent a box overflowing with baked goods. A handwritten note: "You taught me how to write, Mr. Ramirez. And to believe in my own voice. You made me feel seen." He picked up a cookie and let the aroma fill his senses, slowly, tentatively, beginning to taste the sweetness.