Progressive 16
A Pebble in My Pocket
Jason was a man people noticed. Tall, friendly, and always smiling, he drew attention wherever he went. But he didn’t like all the questions about dating. At work, the coffee shop, even the grocery store, people often tried to set him up with someone.
One day, his colleague Liz said, “Jason, my cousin just moved here. She’s funny and—”
“Let me stop you,” Jason said, smiling and putting his hand in his pocket. He held up a small, smooth pebble. “I already have a pebble in my pocket.”
Liz looked confused. “A pebble?”
“Yes,” Jason said. “It keeps me grounded. It reminds me that I’m happy on my own.”
Liz laughed. Jason slipped the pebble back into his pocket and walked away.
The pebble had become Jason’s way to politely say, “Thanks, but no thanks.” He had found it months ago on a hike. Sitting by a stream, the small pebble felt calm and cool in his hand. Since then, he carried it everywhere.
One Saturday, Jason sat in the park reading a book. A young woman with a golden retriever approached. “Hi,” she said, smiling. “My dog thinks you have treats.”
Jason laughed. “Nothing here but a book—and a pebble.”
She tilted her head. “A pebble?”
He held it up. “It reminds me to stay happy and calm. People often try to set me up, but I’m fine as I am.”
The woman smiled. “I like that. I’m Emma.”
“Jason,” he said, shaking her hand.
They sat together on the bench, talking. The pebble stayed in Jason’s pocket, but he enjoyed Emma’s company more than he expected. They met often—at the park, the library, and the coffee shop.
One day, as they walked together, Emma teased, “How’s your pebble?”
Jason smiled, holding it in his hand. “It’s still here. But maybe it’s less important now.”
“Oh?” Emma asked.
He laughed. “I might have room for more than just a pebble.”
Emma nudged him. “Good. But don’t lose it entirely. Everyone needs something to remind them to stay grounded.”
Jason nodded and put the pebble back in his pocket. “It will always remind me that being happy alone is important.”
And as they walked and talked, Jason realized that his pebble had helped him make space for the right things—like new friendships, new experiences… and maybe even love.
Comprehension Questions
Why does Jason carry a pebble in his pocket?
How does Jason use the pebble when people try to set him up?
Who is Emma, and where do they meet?
How does Jason feel about spending time with Emma compared to before?
What lesson does Jason learn about the pebble and life by the end?
Your Thoughts
Have you ever had a small object that reminded you of something important? What was it?
Do you think it’s better to be happy alone before starting a friendship or relationship? Why?
How can small habits or reminders, like Jason’s pebble, help us make decisions in life?
