That which keeps me on my toes are not the ropes around my chest, nor the rope around my neck, but rather the need to stay alert, awake and aware. With my ankles crossed, I am off-balance, prone to falling over. With the pain stemming from nipple clamps, and the fear of being restricted by the rope around my neck, I am conscious, awake, and present in my ordeal. The addition of a vibrator strapped in between my legs challenges my focus, attempting to coax me down the path of orgasm. Although I am tempted down that path many times, I know my true place is this present moment.