Edelira, Those Unseen

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ByEarl
life frames, edelira, a humble man helps children who feel unseen
When the last bell rings and quiet sweeps through the halls, Edelira lets the ache in his knees catch up with him. He still favors Room 14 when he sweeps, the way he has for thirty years — old habit, ever since a young teacher’s smile from that doorway once stopped him mid-stride with a broom in his hands. He wears her ring on a chain now, tucked beneath his shirt, close enough to feel it when he leans on the handle to rest.

Countless students have passed by him: some offer timid greetings, others race past with muddy shoes, and always there are a few who quietly hope to be seen—and that is his gift. His greatest triumphs are marked in unexpected holiday cards or phone calls from former students, now grown, who still lovingly call him Gramps.

Sometimes, in the stillness, the ache rises up on its own — more than the knees, and something older. He lets it come and gives it a moment. Then he moves on, because there’s another hallway to finish and, somewhere, another child unseen.

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2 Comments
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Monte Stevens
Monte Stevens
21 days ago

I just love Edelia’s expression. That is an expression on someone who does not have deadlines, emails to respond, phone calls to return, angry customers and works with his hands. He looks content and happy with his life! He lets the aches come and gives them a moment then he moves on. One of the mysteries in living life we learn in older age. It seems I want to say this the best one yet but I’ve already said that. Keep ’em coming, please!

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Earl
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Earl
20 days ago
Reply to  Monte Stevens

I like his expression as well. It probably played a role in creating the story. I’m glad you liked this one, Monte, but I hope I’ll keep improving so the best one is always one of the next ones. 😂

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