Balance

The center of gravity
when it is found allows
a baby to roll over
and then to bounce back and forth

and move forward to crawl
from crawling to standing
walking, running, jumping
tumbling and diving

into a pool or on to a trampoline
pushing the limits of the earth’s pull
when balance is
clearly established

and in the waning years
after an injury
the crab like walk
of arthritic hips and knees

when it is easier to sit
then test that same test of gravity
terrified by the upcoming frailty.
Physical therapists recommend

learning to balance on a ball
training the various muscles
to become stronger
working against the grave

and eventual position
where rigor mortis sets in
when free will and personal power
doesn’t matter anymore.

Summon whatever vanity
you posses and get moving
override your desire to stay immobile
push beyond your limits

and learn to balance
yourself in the air
standing, walking, moving.