Stepping Stones

I found

that someone had placed

two stones,

centered in a muddy puddle

along the path.

The unexpected discovery

made a touching impression,

that along the path of my

morning walk

in a place that creates

some struggle,

some inconvenience of stride

from having to jump or

feel a cold dampness soak my socks,

someone went out of their way

to place two rocks,

flat and level,

just so.

I can continue easily.

Step. Step.

I'm over the mud

and on my way

to the song of the wood thrush.

The stranger's anonymous kindness

feels like a friendly hand

stretched out

just when I needed it.