When you rise
to that dizzying height
where everything below
look like an army of ants,
remember not too long ago
– or at least in this lifetime
you were once at the base
stretching out to make a strong grip
reaching out for whatever support that may be
and hoping the bars stay still as you lift.

As much as you enjoy
the view that the top may present
and revel in the thoughts of your success
let your mind forget not
the strife in holding and climbing up
that you kick the ladder underneath your feet
or step on struggling hands
still trying to make a reach.

Image credit: Clkr