Kicking into Gear

Everything clicks into focus right on cue. The warm light from the fuel pump is humming, and there's a crew playing tunes right behind me. My joints feel stiff, but that doesn't slow me down. I pivot my right foot forward, plant it on the pavement tiles, and feel the solid ground underneath. Next step, I reach out and tap the bright orange edge of the pump island. Solid plastic, perfectly steady. I can actually move on my own now—no waiting around, the show is starting.