A Carved Walking Stick

I spotted a dry birch twig resting near the roots of a tall tree. It was just about my height and shaped with a natural little curve at the top. I paused to test its balance on a flat patch of moss, tapping it twice to see if it would hold firm. The wood felt light and remarkably sturdy. Using a small chip of slate from the trail, I smoothed away the rough bark along the grip until it fit neatly into my hand. Now I have a proper walking stick for whatever path comes next.