Some call it character. Others call it poor construction. I call it inevitable. After lifting up the weight of the world since my construction, things are going to start sagging. Edges will soften. Layers will lower.

Have you ever considered what it’s like to be a stepping stone in someone else’s journey every single day?

Have you ever thought about the demoralizing existence that comes from inviting others to walk all over you?

Have you given thought to the loads these stones have allowed to ascend and descend in efforts to keep life moving?

How do you think it feels to bow beneath feet as moss and weeds make their homes in my fractures and blemishes?

Now don’t start thinking I’m as sad as my picture might seem. Those curves in my face, they aren’t sags of sadness.

Those lowered lips are little grins at the memories of small children waiting for parents to come home, and the stampede of their tiny feet rushing to the strong arms that lift them up in greeting, even though those arms are exhausted. My rounded edges reach downward to make the tired trudge just a bit less troublesome for those weary legs as they follow the youthful skips of the younger legs inside.

My embowed edges of each step have endured storms, heat, cold, late night kisses, heartbroken tears, and eager entrances and exits that come with generations of passersby. While I could make a metaphors for the steps taken in life, please know that the inevitable indentations of my face are forever smiling as I lift and lower all who travel my tiers.

By: Melanie A. Peters

P.S. This is my first attempt at joining in on the #writephoto

Thursday photo prompt: Worn #writephoto