the return

I take this climb on sight,
diamond point peak
pierces my glove, palm against a sky
where few have walked.

Basecamp one:
kicking my spikes in the ice
testing, hoping they hold
the sharpest blue knife
against careless icefalls
air cold at my throat

Basecamp two:
clear cruel needles
claw at my eyes, while
white over ice sheets
frostbitten fingers
crags and crevasses
thunder below and above
I will die for you or with you

Basecamp three:
steps end, unplanned graves
I know you won’t leave me
oxygen, steroid shots
rope and anchor
all given from love
I can see the summit
steadfast, resolute
the return to ascension
step by step.