I pause to catch my breath. Panting follow panting, as my hands clench my knees, but I can’t get enough. Mira looks on in concern. The ascent above glacial point taxed us both, while our Cross-Country-running trained son ascended with envious ease.
She prepares to speak when I stand up straight. I nod.
“Are you sure?” She asks, incredulous.
“Let’s go,” I answer.
We follow the rest of the trail, past the last pine trees, to the base of Sentinel Dome. Pure granite awaits. Others rise along its face.; the Rock could care less.
With the last of my strength, I step out onto granite and climb to the apex. Where the ceaseless wind and vast vistas of Yosemite greet me in equal measure.
I embrace them both.
The Rock cries out to us today, You may stand upon me, But do not hide your face.
I’m hosting Prosery over at dVerse Poets. We’re writing prose of our choosing, 144 words or less, and including the last sentence of my piece.
The Pub is open! Come join us!
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Categories: haikai, haiku community
Oh my goodness, what a shot! I like the story as well.
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Great story Frank. We are not eighteen any longer!! Yosemite is so beautiful!
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Two generations will pace the run differently. Both will enjoy the view of their timing.
Lovely taking along the reader with you Frank. Happy you dropped by to read mine
Much 😊love
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Reading about these mountain climbs makes me wish I was younger and fitter, Frank. I would have loved to climb a mountain, but the landscape around here is flat and I’d have to travel to Wales or Scotland to find mountains. I am full of admiration for anyone who can hug a summit and touch the sky.
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A story I can live into and appreciate, I love how the rock is both challenge, rest and shelter and also foundation.
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Thanks! 😀
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🙂
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A well written story of the victory of the climb. Thanks for taking us along, Frank!
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Thanks, Beverly! 😀
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Beautiful shot with an endearing story!
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Thanks, Linda! 😀
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I do remember climbing when I was younger, these days I prefer a slower ascent. I hope to get into the mountain as soon as we get a little bit more daylight.
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Thanks, Björn! 😀
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kaykuala
Beautifully done Frank. It’s as though we are there with you. Very realistically real!
Hank
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Thanks! 😀
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Taking on the rock. A story of perseverance.
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Thanks! 😀
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Perfect use of this prompt. I have wonderful memories of being there, though not in a hiking capacity. Gorgeous photo!
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Thanks, Sara!
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