I found a hot air balloon once. I didn't really know where it was to be headed, but it wasn't going anywhere when I found it. It was just on the ground. It looked a little sad, even. I'd never been in a hot air balloon. I asked it kindly, and it swayed its large head, nodding its permission. I set foot in the basket, holding on to the sides. I didn't know what to expect; I took my time, as if I would explode once I was inside. I didn't. The hot air balloon lightened up as soon as I sat down on the floor of the basket- it seemed as though it had been a very long time since someone had truly enjoyed its sanctuary. It groaned a welcome, and I smiled. I closed my eyes and leaned back, imagining what it would be like to actually fly in this beautiful thing, my wondrous friend. I got onto my knees and peeked over the edge of the basket- there wasn't a soul in sight. I petted the side of the basket; Are you up to it, babe?
As if it was answering, the balloon leaned towards the wind, aching to fly, to show me the amazing sights I'd been to fearful to explore. I untied the rope, and felt myself rise with the balloon. The butterflies in my stomach and the tiniest spiders in my veins were set aflutter, as everything began to shift. I was in the sky, in the blue, blue sky, before I knew it, and I didn't ever want to leave.