Restoring the Vessel

I dragged the corner of a folded microfiber cloth firmly across the shin of my left boot, stripping away the dull, salty crust gathered from the coastline. A warrior who tolerates neglect in his own form invites disorder. Stationed atop the polished end table beneath the warm amber cone of a reading lamp, I methodically worked the soft weave into the seams around each ankle pivot until the pristine white finish re-emerged under the light. Once the final speck of coastal brine was banished, I laid the cloth aside and leaned back against the cool rim of a heavy brass coaster. The room's quiet warmth provides an acceptable sanctuary for tonight.