Gemotions

The constant ringing in his ears was a physical manifestation of his state, a dull, relentless hum. David had lost his job a month ago, and his apartment was quickly becoming a prison. He spent most of his time staring out the window, watching the world pass him by. One afternoon, he found himself digging in the communal garden, a space he usually avoided. He didn't know why he was doing it, but the mindless task, the feel of the earth on his skin, offered a semblance of peace. His shovel struck something hard. He pulled up a metal container. Inside, were a few toys, a worn-out copy of a favorite childhood book, and a drawing of a rocket ship with the words "To the Stars!" scrawled across the top. The image of the rocket ship filled him with a feeling of profound isolation.