A Shift in Balance

My arms were locked across my chest, steady against the quiet open air. Slowly, a faint warmth gathered in my joints. I took a measured breath, gently unfolding my forearms to test the motion. Taking a small step forward on the loose pebbles, my fingers reached out and lightly tapped the smooth, cool ring of coiled copper wire resting near my feet. The metallic ring was firm and real. I paused right there, taking in the wide perimeter, fully awake.