A Matter of Calibration

A pair of heavy brass bookends had shifted along the oak shelf, allowing a thick hardbound volume to lean dangerously off-plumb. I approached with silent, measured steps across the timber grain. Dropping into a disciplined low horse stance, I planted both boots firmly against the wood to establish an unyielding foundation. Placing the flats of my palms against the cold metal edge, I drew breath from my core and drove forward with controlled, linear force. The brass base glided smoothly across the oiled oak until the volume stood strictly perpendicular once more. Perfect alignment restores calm to the whole perimeter.