Rocky Mountain High

The peak stands alone, monstrous above the rest,
Thrusting its rocky fist into the heavens.
The sun peeks its gentle warmth over the snow-capped pass.
The breeze carries that crisp mountain air through the valley below.
A lone pilgrim gazes upward at the craggy, weather-beaten summit.
14,433 feet, it projects in solitary glory, dominating the rugged skyline,
Beckoning to all who dare set foot on her sacred slopes.
The isolated adventurer begins the endless trek to the cloud-laden pinnacle.
Seeking solace within the purifying clarity of the infinite vista.
Step by resolute step, the soul-searcher draws nearer to his nirvana.
A stinging gust of icy wind flings the shards of snow and rock
Into the frostbitten visage that is the sole voyager on this lonely Tooth of Time.
Challenging the unrelenting elements of Nature itself,
The iron-willed mountaineer throws himself back into the gale.
As the black clouds suddenly begin to sail away,
The explorer peers upwards to find the crowning achievement
Just within his reach.
He gallantly completes his last few life-altering strides to his ultimate triumph.
Finally his feet rest on the sacred snow of the phenomenal accomplishment.
The worshipper cannot help but feel miniscule and insignificant.
He lies within the welcoming arms of Mother Nature and
All the trials and tribulations of city life
Seem trivial in the face of this
Rocky Mountain High.

Robert Wojahn, age 16
Centennial, Colorado
Arapahoe High School (Littleton)
Teacher: Marlys Ferrill