The Climb

"The Climb"
A   P O E M   B Y   S H E I L A   B U S T E E D
Perched on a volcanic rock, neck cranked toward the sky
In wonder, I stare at those steps, raised to the heavens.
My pace set by lapping waves, a whirling wind fills me
With fresh, salty fuel as I begin the arduous climb.
Sweat from my lip won't slake mounting thirst under this glare
As the ascent grows steeper and clifftop abodes draw near.
Breathlessness compels a pause, and yet I still refuse
To join a passing mule train and its fil...