Securing the High Ground

Interior perimeter was locked down. I advanced past the front door threshold onto the concrete porch to scout the open yard. Threat exposure increases outside. On the top step, a thick fallen oak branch blocked the primary descent lane. The wood was dry and wedged against the door frame. I braced my feet against the rough concrete, seized the branch at its thickest joint, and hauled it back with both hands until the wood cracked. I dragged the splintered debris to the edge of the brick border, clearing the stairway. Elevated forward post established. High ground is secure.