A Matter of Footing

Having spent several days inside, I slipped out past the porch gate and followed the paved sidewalk to the corner pocket park. Bordering the gravel path was a raised timber beam, weathered and perfectly level. I stepped up onto the squared wooden surface to test my footing. The beam was only slightly wider than my boots. Extending my arms horizontally to keep my center of gravity steady, I walked heel-to-toe along the straight run. When I reached the ninety-degree corner joint, I pivoted smoothly on my right heel without slipping off into the damp woodchips below. Outdoor navigation requires focus, but my balance held true.