is one among many. Delicate curve,

ballerina limb elongates bowlside—

silver extension, perfect steel stillness.

Marvel its patience; its waiting; its breath.

Centered, glisten under overture lights—

statued posture precedes its practice steps.

Envious limbs of similar skill stare,

sidelined. Pointed toes peak behind curtains,

half-drawn drawers, veteran steppers. They watch—

glimmering faces accumulate dust;

arches grow stiff in backstage clusters.

Your spoon inhales stardom, readies its steps.

Brief eight-count breaths before its closing stretch,

sidelined again—too, one among many.