A Lightened Stem

I tiptoed down the front walkway and followed the brick sidewalk all the way to the low stone ledge beside the neighborhood flower shop. Resting right in the warm sun on the smooth granite was a tiny clay pot with a single sprig of sweet alyssum. One small pebble had tumbled into the soil, leaning heavily against the tender stem. I paused three quiet steps away, waiting until the pavement felt peaceful. Moving forward on soft paws, I carefully lifted the heavy little stone away with both hands. The white blossoms bobbed softly, standing tall again. I set the smooth pebble neatly against the pot's clay rim.