A river climbs the mountain,
Battling heaven on its journey to the sky.
Bedrock clatters against itself for space within the tide.
***
All flowing upwards, against the earth's trials:
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Against the hard minerals of the soil, and the stout oaks.
Against the rain, and the morning dew.
Against wildfire, or storm wrath.
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Oh, how long will you climb?
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When the last splint crackles within the hearth?
When the last page is turned in your story?
When your cup is full, and flowing at the seams?
***
"Did you know," you say, as you sit in your hardwood chair.
***
Your posture straight and simple,
As you sip on your cheap canned beer with your friends,
Your deep voice battling against the silence.
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"So," you ask uncertainly, as you shake my hand.
***
Your chocolate eyes gazing at mine resolute,
Firm grip stifling mine as we nod in assent,
Your steady heart despite the heavy sky, and hardship.
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Forge ahead with the tide, battling heaven from below.
***
How vast the sky seems;
How small, and humble you are;
How long, and arduous the path seems to be.
***
But you still choose one less traveled…?