red balloon

by teresa

I saw a red balloon dancing down Battlefield Blvd this afternoon.
Low to the ground. Bouncing, spinning over the bridge.
Tucked close to the guard rail, whooshed away from the traffic.
I was thinking that it was a good life for a balloon.
She was careful enough not to get popped, but still free to float wherever the breeze blows her.
Bouncing along...slowly shrinking, yes...but still free.
That's better than popping...right.
I would rather deflate leisurely than pop.