Square and Level

Spotted a stack of heavy hardcovers listing sideways on the bottom shelf, looking like a sloppy retaining wall ready to give out. Couldn't just leave it crooked. I hunkered down, planted my heels on the floorboard, and wedged my shoulder right against the spine of the biggest volume. Took a breath, set my jaw, and gave it a slow, steady shove. Didn't want to tear the paper covers with these rocky knuckles, so I eased the pressure up until the whole pile slid back into true plumb. The books settled with a solid, satisfying thud. Ran a rough palm along the edge—straight as a plumb line. That's how you support a load.