Brought full circle

Like a mother, you take me by the hand as I prepare to take my first, uncertain steps
down a road that is not yet well-worn.
When I hesitate, you look me in the eye and say 'press on.'

I look up at you, wondering how you could have such faith in me,
and I squeeze your hand, trusting you as I would trust no other.
Everything you have told me,
all you have given me thus far,
was in the right -
giving me no reason for doubt.

So I lift my legs, and bring them firmly down to Earth,
treading slowly but surely
and gaining momentum with each step.
Soon, I break out into a trot
then a canter
and then gallop down the road
as I realize my legs will hold.

My heart soars into the sky, beating wildly, frantically,
joining the birds that accompany us overhead.
My hands beat a primal rhythm,
keeping time with my pounding feet
as I get farther and farther away from you.

Then I turn back,
and see that you have tripped over a branch,
making no noise even though you cannot go further.
So I take you in my arms,
and lift you up,
carrying you down this forest road
back to our home, where I may tend to you
as you cared for me for so many years.

When it is your turn to walk, you hesitate, fearing pain;
I take you by the hand and command you; 'press on.'