A Steady Step

My footing felt firm at first. I looked down at the green base under my feet, then tested my balance. With a quiet click, my right foot lifted free from the stud. I took a slow step forward. The surface below was not hard plastic; the deep green fabric yielded gently under my weight. I lowered my arm and pressed one hand against the textured weave of the sofa cushion. It gave slightly, then held firm. The morning was calm and quiet. My joints moved cleanly, and the ground beneath me was stable. I stood still, taking it all in.