Free-Falling Fear

My heart’s in my mouth as I climb on the ride

my partner is hopeful, I’ve nervously eyed

I’m afraid and elated…both I skillfully hide

a thousand deaths I’ve silently died.

“Give it gas, grab the clutch…only you can decide”

Says my teacher…”ok! OKAY! Now just step aside!!!!”

“As you wish,” he says, and steps back with a long stride

And into the seat I bounce with a slide—

I sit like a statue….”WHAT DO I DO?!” I cried.

In disbelief, my teacher’s eyes open wide.

“Straighten up! Do not lean to either side!”

Any exasperation he feels he chooses to hide.

I think, “I’m toast. I’m dead. I’m history. I’m fried.”

And sure enough to the pavement I glide -

For a moment I lay there and think I have died.

“Come on…you’re fine…you didn’t collide.”

So up on my feet, in the seat, fears subside

Put in gear, give it gas, prayers of strength provide

I put my feet on the pegs and skillfully guide

My bike down the stretch, my grin is so wide.

Gosh! It feels great! No longer denied!!!!!

Two times I fell, but no skin off my hide.

To my folks I have hidden but others confide

within my being….there’s a biker chick inside.

My instructor tells me later that day with pride

“You did good Little One….you’re learning to ride—

To all rules of safety, I know you’ll abide.

Given more practice…your fear will subside."

The biker's code of the road known worldwide

The answers you’ll find; the questions denied.

Copyright © March 2003 Amy L. Allison