Peak

Within the call of echoes past,
Clung the promise, green as grass.
I would find my way and seek.
Carve a path up to my peak.

Journey made of darkened roads,
Chosen for their dappled modes.
Soon the shade took in the light.
Midday seemed like guiding night.

All alone, I took the curves
With stalwart hope and brassy nerves.
Once were those that rode astride.
Our singing birds eventually died.

The common bond was water based,
Washed away like finger paste.
I’m thankful for the laughs and cheers.
But in review, those wasted years

Kept me stagnant and insecure,
For want of better polymer.
Yet, here I am back on the trail,
Weathered, worn and somewhat pale.

Above the tree line, I feel the breeze.
Amongst the boulders, my thoughts are these.
The way ahead’s no guarantee.
The pack I carry agrees with me.

The promised hope jostles inside,
I’ll carry upward and abide.
Forever reaching toward the sun,
Though inner peaks I've already won


2/17/21