The Mountain

Everyone has a mountain to climb... Don't let them do it alone!

The warning replayed itself for the thousandth time: "don't look down!" 

This mountain face had probably never been climbed before. Its location so remote, so distant from all civilization that it would be unlikely that most even knew it existed. 

As I fought upward I realized that doing this by myself was a mistake. I should not be doing this alone. The climb would be less challenging, the fight easier. However, I did not want to share the triumph of conquering such an obstacle with another. This was my fight, my glory. And so I expelled such negative thoughts out of my mind. 

The craggy rocks scraped my hands and scarred my knees. Twice in the last hour my foot had slipped. I needed a rest. I looked around - there was no place where I could sit and regain energy. I was forced to continue. 

I was running out of steam. I could go no further. I disobeyed the warning and I looked down. What I had conquered earlier felt so meaningless and empty. Nothing but bare rock. My hand slipped. I managed to catch myself, but a sharp edge gashed my hand. I could not stop myself from falling again. 

I heard a cry from above me. My heart leapt. Could it be? Might someone else be here? I looked up. A group of climbers at the summit waved their arms and shouted to me. I was not alone! 

A rope was lowered. I was saved! 

-Elliot B.

Reviews

[AcasualPawn]

'Ohhh' that was word came from my mouth after reading last paragraph....

Life's journey sure becomes easy with lots of companions...

There's a strong message in the story..
And presented in a amazing way Because of your creative imagination..

[Elliot B.]

Thank you! I really appreciate your kind words!

[Carol Cashes]

Saved...but losing the "victory" so anticipated. I think being saved trumps ego...every. time.

Well done. I have told many other writers that I love "slice of life" pieces: they are compact, concise and complete, requiring no extensive descriptions or dialogue. It is a skill and talent that I admire and envy. Nicely done.

[Elliot B.]

Thank you very much! I really appreciate it!