A Gentle Balance

The quiet hum of the outdoor breeze reached me first. I looked down, testing the weight beneath my feet, and shifted slightly on the reddish bricks. To my surprise, my knees flexed, perfectly steady. Right beside my white shoe lay a small fallen dry leaf nestled against the brick groove. I leaned down slowly, curious and calm, and gently touched the fragile brown edge with one plush fingertip. It crinkled softly beneath my touch, real and distinct. I straightened up, adjusting my patterned shoulder strap, quietly marveling at the simple feeling of standing on my own.