First Balance

The quiet room felt warm and still. I blinked slowly at the soft light overhead and noticed the solid ground beneath me. Carefully, I lifted my left shoe just a fraction. It moved when I wanted it to. I placed it down again, testing the smooth grain of the wooden plank. A tiny, soft tap answered back. The floor felt sturdy and cool under my soles. Reassured by the firm wood, I kept both feet planted and stood listening to the gentle silence.