Screeching Halt!

Screeching tyres
Bought me to a halt.
I knew what was coming next
And that I can't sidestep it.
I was gripped with a fear for the unknown
Only for an instant
When I was in the air.
The next moment
I was on a familiar territory
Back on the ground
With a small difference I realised.
Sprawled on the road,
Shocked standstill audience far away
And confused me.

It was surprising
That I could move.
After an unconscious scan from top to bottom
Nothing was broken in body and spirit.
I thanked the helper who stood my bike
And satisfied the urge
To chide the child who ran across.

Before I was gripped by embarrassment
I decided to pedal off
With a mixed emotion
Of relief and an incomprehensible excitement
Because I came out safe and sound.
It called for a smile
As the rush inside was exhilarating
So I labelled it an adventure
Carried off well by luck.