More Than A Climb

A man set out with hands worn bare,
to scale a rock through mountain air.
He took a breath, then found his pace,
with hope and sweat beads on his face.

Climbed until sun became cool shade,
past clumsy slips, watched deep fears fade.
Along his path, his will held strong,
each step he took pushed him along.

Thoughts helped him up, some passed him by,
at times he paused to laugh or cry.
With each small inch, he reached the crest,
forward he moved, no need for rest.

He sat atop, the world so wide,
a peaceful joy swept him inside.
His eyes soon noticed a clear shine,
a glowing sign, a soft, bright line:

“Please smile at strangers,” gently said,
a warmth filled his soul as he read.
He turned and grinned, looked down below,
then smiled at all while climbing slow.

– Grace Y. Estevez – Reddy

Response to Sadje’s picture prompt on What Do You See # 290 May 26, 2025

This weeks prompt offered two picture options. This poem was inspired by both pictures. 💕