Vital preserver helps defy gravity,
But nevertheless
Holding every muscle perfectly still
Like a timid deer on ice,
One wrong move-
I could be meditating on sand among them

Gazing down at the
Massive, circular carpets,
The hopefully unaware creatures
Their smooth rolling, wet-velvet exteriors,

Engrossed eyes can’t depart,
Exhilaration rising as they run the path
Of the energized stakes,
A quick spark to silence,

Silence except for the faint hum,
Of limbs moving with fretful vigor
But in slow motion,
The resistance created by
Their cool ominous world,

I wouldn’t be admitted
If I was at risk except-
I can’t help but think-
Did Animal Planet prepare me for this?