The steps of the ladder rose
One above the other
Sweat above her lip and brow
A low belly sick
Paralyzed by her fear
A superstition not able to rationalize
She stood to the side
Passerby’s in quick step succession
Heart vibrating her breast plate
Eyes darting to and from
Her eyes to the strangers, the strangers to her
Fear shooting up her neck
Sweat trickling down her back
Anxiety growing
Heat unbearable to feel
She could just turn around
Quick shuffle to across the street
No ladder to cross under
She stood frozen
Unwavering like the wind
The wind that swayed the ladder