Taking the Lead
The stillness broke deep within my chest. I did not rush. I slowly clenched my right fist, testing the tension in my wrist and shoulder. My boots were planted firmly on the worn cardboard. Behind me stood the others, motionless, flanking my perimeter before the glossy backdrop. Deliberately, I shifted my weight forward and nudged a small torn flap along the edge beneath my boot. It bent under my force. This ground is mine to hold.