The Climb

"The Climb"

In the range of life stands a great peak,

Glowing at dawn, bathed in golden sun.

Conquer it! Earn the grace all do seek,

Rest will come when the job is well done.

Dark night of despair, end - disappear!

Cold distraction brought by doubt's swift wind,

Brace against falling, nothing to fear!

Here together, why are none a friend?

See naught else, but t'end of the journey,

Sounds of pain lost in the crunch of steps.

Lonely, focused work, a silent sea --

Ambition's boots ships above the depths.

Singular desire, to reach the top!

Close, the summit looms, a long day near.

Tired? Fatigued? Keep going, don't stop!

The whole of life hard spent to get here.

As life progresses few keep onward,

To the apex... numbers grow smaller.

Close it appears, climbing seems hard,

Compassion shrinks, mountains grow taller.

After loss, labors great 'til the end,

One has reached what many once began.

A quick moment of glory, they grinned,

But... see? What a lovely place to stand!

Lament, a sigh. Life's more - look around!

Good friends, family on this road lost...

"Better if all ascend!" Head back down,

Without them, the view too much has cost.

Search and lift - brothers, sisters, fallen!

Find'em along the path, those broken souls,

Sacrifices, share greater calling...

Hand clasped in hand! Together our goals!

Onward all, upward - we are all one!

Over rocks, streams... ev'ryone helping,

Until finally, all stand there done...

And we will climb higher, unending!

-- J.R.H.