Mia stood at the edge of the playground. Three kids played tag near the swings.
She took one small step forward, then stepped back. Her shoelace was untied.
Inside the community center, a little boy tugged at his lunchbox. It would not open.
Mia walked over and pressed the latch. Click. The lid popped open. The boy grinned up at her.
On her way out, Mia saw an old lady sitting alone on a bench. She stared at the ground.
Mia picked a dandelion and held it out. The lady looked up. Her wrinkled face broke into a smile.
Mia smiled. She felt like she was holding a tiny sun in her hands.
Mia's untied lace caught her foot. She tripped and tumbled into the soft grass.
Mia sat up and laughed at her silly fall. She held out a hand to the little boy beside her. He took it.
All three kids started laughing together. Mia felt her steps grow lighter.
Mia walked back through the community center and held the door open for the old lady.
The lady patted her hand. Mia smiled and walked out into the sunshine.