The Carapace

I'm in a lot of pain,

But I am alive.

It's been a long climb,

But, I'm starting to love the high.

Eyes blind from sweat off my brow,

Mind weary from a heart plagued by sorrow.

My temple is frail from the sleepless nights and numb stomach.

Exhausted, I reach the carapace to wash the sweat from my eyes and body in a pool understanding.

Again I can see.

The beauty of what I witness sears my retinas.

So long I've looked down.

At peace with how simple it was to sit on the foothills

While the eager hikers began their climb

But, the scenery from the top is so immaculate.

I bathe in the unshaded beams of love and acceptance.

I'll never go back,

To the bottom.

Never leave this sanctuary.

Lest gravity gets the best of me.

I'm alive,

And living this time.