The Ascent

What does it take to ascend a mountain?

Some say it takes a trained knowledge

of the ropes and anchors

Others say it takes a natural courage and will of mind

Others still say ascending a mountain takes nothing more than a good pair of boots

I say the ascent will take a special type of person

Not he who begins to run for the summit

Or he who takes the turtle's pace

But rather, the one who would edge a cliff without looking down

Who would continue upwards as new heights continue to unfold

The one who fills their eyes with beauty

Their minds with a gritty determination

And their hearts with peace

These are those who the mountain will cherish

And who will cherish the mountain- forevermore