kaolin fire presents :: writing :: fiction

"Bootstrapped"

words

Bootstrapped ------------

I hate cliches, or at least the ones people these days take for granted. I bought boots, boots with straps--it was hard to find a pair with straps, antiques in some crazy old store, but I found them, and they were cheap enough, considering. I waited 'til I was home to put them on.

I didn't use the straps to help pull them on. It was harder that way, but I wanted to give it the full go.

I pulled, gently at first, then, squeezing my eyes shut, I slowly increased the pressure until my muscles were trembling.

I thought the pain in my head was from passing out and hitting it on the floor, but no--I broke through my ceiling and was flying. I'd lifted myself by my bootstraps, and nothing else to support me.

If I wasn't so afraid to let go, it would be heaven.