Performed by Val Cole

My mountain to climb by Bethany Zare

Diagnosis cancer,
like others have had.

My type is common,

so not really that bad.

The experience feels

like an amusement ride,

With ups and downs

but nowhere to hide.

Each test brings more questions

no clear path to believe,

Not sure who to trust.

No one brings me relief.

I cling to hope

and try not to fret

until one doctor says,

"It might have spread."

Could this be it?

Might I soon expire?

It crosses my mind,

no time to retire.

Toc-toc-toc goes the clock,

my hour glass runs dry.

Knock-knock-knock on the door

I start to question why.

Lessons not learned

will be repeated.

Can't skip ahead

like a class where I cheated.

Must breathe,

slow down.

Try to get off

life's merry-go-round.

I look in the mirror

to see my core

no longer in conflict;

I'm at peace not war.

Breath in recovery

breath out self-care.

Love is the answer.

Gratitude, fully aware.

Surrender, Acceptance,

coming in handy.

Offers of food and prayer

are better than candy.

Who knows

where this path leads,

when it will stop

or if I'll succeed.

It's my mountain to climb.

I forage ahead

just one step at a time,

leaving behind dread.

Discomfort now my BFF.

Not distracted from my feelings.

I sit with the grief

as it's all part of healing.