Training Wheels
(from Within My Illusions &
Artwise Poetry Roulette Cards)
My dad held onto the back of the seat
the first time I rode my bike
without training wheels.
“Don’t let go,” I pleaded.
I wasn’t aware of when the bike
slipped out of his grip,
but I can still feel the moment
of bringing myself into balance,
of releasing my breath,
and finding the freedom to fly.