As gentle as can be

With blades beneath my feet

I feel my balance wavering

with only that first step

Your grip is tight and welcoming

Your smile warm against the ice

You watch me with such patience

And pull me closer holding tight.

I fall a bit and stumble more

Like a new born deer, legs still sore

But you pick me up and kiss my cheek

And we try again

Stand like this, you mimic for me

And slide away from the stance

I stare at my feet as I try to keep up

But slowly I glide a few paces back.

You try to let go of my iron grip hand

Or pull me away from the wall’s edge

But slowly with time

I promise you this

I’ll let go, and skate to you

Even if it means we fall again.