The Ascent I have been furthest from delighted or delightful. Weights have weighed me down like rocks in the poetess’ pockets dragging me down to the bottom of the sea. And how can I see clearly? With all these fathoms of seas above me? The light filters down to my upturned eyes but it only makes me envy those who ride the waves. I was there once; fighting for my life with each roiling swell. Trying to keep my head above water. It was then that you lifted me — to walk like Peter among the waves. But now, the white caps have pummeled me one too many times & my pockets are lined with heavy stones & I can’t see you —anywhere. And if the joy of the Lord is strength well—no wonder I am so exhausted. In despair I turn my eyes from the light, from my envy of those who walk on water— But it’s then that I see you. Drawing near & nearer reaching around me your strong arms taking the rocks from this poetess’ pockets & taking my hand— & oh the delight! you are not where I saw you last— But you are where I am. No depth too deep for you. No weight too great for your strong shoulders. My pockets emptied you take my hand— but you don’t drag me along at some efficient clip. Instead you hold me steady as the water lets us slowly ascend. This poem was originally published in The Joyful Life Magazine in the fall 2020 issue.
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