The First Stride

My joints loosened from stillness. I drew back my shoulders, testing the tension in my taped right fist. Strength stirred inside—steady, resolute, and undeniably real. I planted my boots firmly onto the surface and took my first deliberate step forward. Reaching out, I pressed my knuckles against the solid upright post of the white organizer unit before me. Solid. Grounded. A true foundation. I locked my stance and held my chin high, prepared for whatever contest lies ahead.