A Step Toward the Outside

I followed a warm square of midday light straight across the floorboards. It led right to the sliding glass door. Outside, dry leaves were skittering along the stone porch steps, making quick, rustling sounds. I knelt down beside the low metal door track and pressed my hands against the cool glass pane. It was warm from the sun on the outside, but cold right where my fingertips touched. Watching those golden leaves tumble freely on the path made me wonder how far that outdoor trail goes.