Acoustic Equilibrium

The circular cedar disc of the wind chime hung six inches beyond the railing post, suspended over the drop by braided nylon cords. Any uneven pressure would send the six aluminum pipes colliding in audible alarm. I shifted my weight from the post onto the edge of the wood, absorbing the initial sway through flexed knees. The pendulum striker below lurched toward the longest cylinder. Shifting my center two millimeters backward, I brought the wooden hub level. The striker halted dead center in empty air. Zero resonance. Standing balanced above the suspended chimes, the entire yard lay under silent, unobstructed watch.