Stones ground to sand
Sand that covers my feet to the ankles
Each step pulls the muscles
Of my calves taut
I strain....

I feel the fibers tearing
To become strong,
I must rest
The dogs run ahead
Along the rocky walls
They are like goats
Their feet know this ground
Distracted by sounds, smells, birds, lizards
They never hesitate, never look down
They trust....

I drink water warmed by the sun
I consider turning back
Rising from the shade
I ponder two horizons
One forward, one back
I go on

Miles of sun and dust
Aching back, burning skin
Sudden silence
Cold, windless silence
I am tiny and I am standing
In the middle of a mountain

TO BE CONTINUED....