Stopover

"Stopover" by William Gerken is a science fiction story set in a world changed forever by war, where some people now have psychic powers. It explores what it means to be alone, the need to find where you belong, and how psychic abilities might build a brighter future. The story centers on a young man with the power to move things with his mind, who comes to a small town looking for his family. While there, he helps the town by teaching kids how to use their own hidden powers. His arrival causes a stir, with town leaders arguing about whether to accept people with these abilities. The story shows the struggle between using these talents to improve society and the fear of what's new and different. In the end, the young man decides to keep searching for others like him, leaving the town with a sense of hope and a path toward change for their children.