staying vertical

Sending this magical piece onward since it is too precious to hold

from the magical and wickedly talented Maya Stein via the magical Jen Lemen.

how to climb a mountain
by Maya Stein

Make no mistake. This will be an exercise in staying vertical.
Yes, there will be a view, later, a wide swath of open sky,
but in the meantime: tree and stone. If you’re lucky, a hawk will coast overhead, scanning the forest floor. If you’re lucky, a set of wildflowers will keep you cheerful. Mostly, though, a steady sweat, your heart fluttering indelicately, a solid ache perforating your calves. This is called work, what you will come to know, eventually and simply, as movement, as all the evidence you need to make your way. Forget where you were. That story is no longer true. Level your gaze to the trail you’re on, and even the dark won’t stop you.

Tomorrow morning, 8:30, day 3 bloodwork and US down in Boston. And just like that, the next chapter begins.