Lightness on Ice

The dog pulled forward, a sudden urge,

and something in my body surged.

Not pain, not heavy, not a drag,

just a loose swing, a subtle wag.

My shoulders dropped, the knot untied,

I felt my muscles, deep inside.

A buoyant step, a quickened pace,

a smile returned upon my face.

The ground was slick with thin, clear ice,

but my ankles held, a sweet device.

No fear of falling, no old dread,

just lightness in each step I led.

My own self, walking, finally home.