His diminutive stature has always elevated him above the rest.

Given him a place on “Mom’s” hip where he rises above the others.

Looks down on them with disdain.

Mocks them for their sturdiness, their heft, their inability to be easily lifted and hoisted and toted above the fracas and the fray.

Today he gave himself even more of a promotion.

Took the stairs to the landing.

Leered down at the rest of us.

Barked his orders to all who fell below his gaze.

He ruled the kingdom for a brief moment, before I understood that he wanted to get on the bed and bask in the late morning sun.

Before I realized he needed help.

Before I realized that while he was big enough to take the stairs, he was not brave enough to take the leap….