The Swaying Ramp

I paused at the head of the wide wooden ramp leading down to the floating marina dock, waiting until the walkway was completely clear. As gentle waves rolled beneath the pontoons, the entire gangway tipped into a slow, rhythmic rise and fall. Keeping my tail tucked safely along my center to stay clear of the handrails, I took two cautious steps onto the grooved rubber runner. A passing boat sent a gentle swell underneath, tilting the ramp beneath my feet and nudging me lightly backward. My plump frame absorbed the tilt with a soft, bouncy sway, and I easily found my rhythm, riding the slow wooden seesaw all the way down.