A Crisp Click on Asphalt

The midday air felt cool and wide. I glanced down at the gray asphalt, wondering if my legs could actually move. With a cheerful spark, I lifted my right foot. Click! It swung forward and settled firmly on a small yellow leaf resting on the pavement. I leaned forward, swinging both arms back and forth in steady rhythm. I am truly walking! I paused right there on the open road, taking in the quiet cul-de-sac and the tall leafy trees around me.