Fine Line

When did the path
Get so narrow
The line I’m walking
So fine

It used to be

I walked in
Wide open spaces
With no regard for
Placement of feet
Twisted ankles
Falling

Now I walk

A very fine line
Offering no margin
Little room for error
A game of balance
Demanding concentration
To stay on track

In the open spaces

There was just forward motion
I could walk, run, skip
Cartwheel when desired

On the fine line

There is one small step
Then another
Only walking
And sometimes
Just standing
In place

In the open spaces

No instruction
Needed

On the fine line

Many rules for
Survival

Rules Like

Communicate love

But protect yourself

Show empathy

But don’t expect it back

Support next steps

But don’t condone poor choices

Live a strong life

Even if others don’t

Look ahead
But keep an eye on the past

Laugh

But not if others are too sad

Fine line you are tiring

I want to fall off you

And just live free again

I miss the cartwheels