Stop and smell the roses. |
I had always wondered how the view might be. At the top of the mountain, what might I see? In the valley below, my eyes looked up high And I planned how I'd make my trip to the sky. So focused I was on conquering the hill, I spent year after year honing my skill. I endured the training to ensure I was fit, Since the climb would test my mettle and wit. I jumped over the foothills, not missing a stride Clenching my teeth, I would not be denied. "Slow down", some said, "this isn't a race" But I paid them no heed as I shot up the face. I sped up my pace as the apex drew near. No time to rest now, I must persevere. I reached the summit and surveyed the land But suddenly realized there was nowhere to stand. With no stable ground, I began to lament. I stepped over the peak to start the descent. The path down was much quicker than ever I planned Without steps or a foothold, I slid down the sand. I scratched and I clawed to stop my fast slide. The effort was futile, yet harder I tried. Now I was tired and I couldn't maintain My previous vigor on this different terrain. Downward I slid, ever nearing the base. And nothing I tried would lessen my pace. Soon I would find myself on the ground On the opposite side with no path around. I wished I had taken the chance on the climb To slow down my pace and take some more time. To stop and enjoy the views as I went, Only realizing now what the others had meant. On the ground again I looked to the top And with tears in my eyes I considered my drop. I wanted to go back and start it again But there was no returning to where I had been. |