A Shift in Balance

My left hand was held up in a stiff gesture beside my face. Beneath my shoes, the ground felt unusually springy and slick. I looked down carefully. I was standing directly on top of a glossy, colorful snack package. First, I focused on testing my joints. Slowly, deliberately, I lowered my left arm until it rested naturally by my side. Then, adjusting my weight, I pressed the toe of my sneaker down against the plastic wrapper. It yielded with a crisp, tiny crinkle. I balanced steadily, fully in control of my own frame.