From Ground to Sky: A Reflective Climb

Experiencing joy and memory.

MichaelStephenWills

Here, on the playground,
the morning stretches wide—
a sky so blue it swallows you whole.
And you, a small figure, climbing
the red pillar, moving hand over hand
up the ropes that knot and twist
like veins, like lifelines.

I watch from below,
the ground a familiar place
where footsteps fall and scatter—
but you, you are ascending,
breath held in the still air.
Nothing is simple in this moment,
yet everything is—

the cord that bends beneath you,
the thrill in your chest,
the boots pressed firm against braided paths.

If I could speak, if words were clear as the day,
I’d tell you how these small victories—
climbing high, standing above—
are etched into the bones of memory.
Someday, you’ll look back and wonder
at the web of ropes,
the pillar red against autumn’s burn,
and the vastness that carried you up,
into light, into air,

where fear gave way to joy,
and the sky leaned close,
just to watch you rise.

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9 thoughts on “From Ground to Sky: A Reflective Climb”

  1. Michael, a beautiful poem capturing the magic of those moments when there is nothing beyond battling that fear and the overwhelming sense of joy – yes, one that will remain forever! The boy’s smile says it all too! 😀

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thank you so much, Annika!

      There’s nothing quite like the thrill of pushing past fear and discovering that overwhelming joy waiting on the other side.

      That moment truly stays with you forever, and the boy’s smile captures it perfectly.

      I’m delighted the poem resonated with you and brought that magic to life! 😀

      Like

    1. Thank you so much, Lynne!
      I’m delighted that the poem and photos resonated with you, and I truly appreciate your kind words.
      I love your perspective that an ending can feel like a beginning—so beautifully said! ❤

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you, bigskybuckeye!
      These reflections brought back memories of mine and your youthful adventures.
      It’s wonderful to hear that you’re still young at heart—that spirit of adventure never truly fades, does it? Here’s to many more moments of discovery, no matter our years!

      Like

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