A Shift in Balance

Stiffness gives way. First, the right wrist moves, lifting fingers slightly away from my chin. The ground beneath my shoes feels solid, coarse asphalt under an overcast sky. In my left hand, the black paddle carries weight. Real weight. I slowly lower my right arm, testing joint rotation, and tap the paddle's rim gently against the pale concrete curb. A dull, firm tap echoes. Range of motion confirmed. Surface contact verified.