A Lichen Stepping Stone

I left the sheltered fern hollow and followed the narrow band of mulch along the brick foundation. Halfway down, a fallen slate plant tag lay propped across two rounded river stones. The smooth grey slate was dusted with pale green lichen, creating a natural elevated bridge. I tapped the edge with my sandal to test its steadiness before stepping up onto the incline. Balancing on the narrow surface with arms outstretched, I walked its entire length in three measured paces. From the highest point, I noticed a tiny snail shell resting upright in the soil below, completely intact.