Great Minds – FWG-FB 300 word flash fiction based on the picture below. Triggers: Depression/Suicidal Thoughts

Jacob Cantrell was the first to class, never disruptive and could solve any equation I threw his way.

He sat in the back, closest to the window. He’d groan like an old man when he slid into the chair, and he didn’t as much as blink when the sun hit his eyes.

He’d stare out the double doors into the hall even though he couldn’t see anything but the grooved, rubber covered steps leading to the library. I left the doors open because of the uneasy feeling I got when the kids were eerily quiet while studying.

Before break, I handed out packets of worksheets to be done over summer. At dismissal, Jacob left his.

I walked to his desk and took a seat. No surprise, his work was completed and on it, he left a note.

Miss Kalman, you once told me great minds think alike, I believed you meant the love we shared for mathematics. But over the semester, I realized it was more. Your unhappiness and fear resembled mine. I wanted you to know that the sun brings me joy. My desk was imperfect and sometimes caused my legs to cramp but I appreciated its flaw and where it allowed me to be. I’ve learned great minds don’t think alike, great minds simply have the ability to think. All have great minds; some are just faulty. I hope you stop and look for your happy place, it’s out there, I promise. – Jacob

I never thought of Jacob as a guardian angel, but he saved the life I intended on ending, my own.

As I embark on a new career, I’ve heard my classroom is being used for storage. But the sun still shines and I now find the beauty in all minds, including mine.