Finding Traction

The light was bright overhead when my joints unlocked. I lay flat on the smooth white surface, feeling the cool ground beneath my shoulders. Rather than rushing, I bent my waist hinge step by step until I pushed myself up. My plastic hands pressed down against the board, testing the grip. I swung my legs forward and placed both feet firmly onto the flat panel. The surface was sturdy, quiet, and level. Everything worked as it should. I remained seated there, taking in the stillness around me.