V 5 ***

With axes in hand, 
Step forth my dear.
Step up.

A soft jangle as you place your crampon firm.
Step up.

Clip the gear, take a breath,
Feel connected to the route.
Step up.

Be in the moment and enjoy the present.
Step up.

Take your fear and challenge it.
Step up.

And as you climb, 
Your brain is free, 
Those noises for once all silenced.
Step up.

Go on my friend, 
With axes in hand.
Step up.

Step up, step up and on and on, 
A route that never ends.

In memory of Peter William Metcalfe. 9th June 1971 to 22nd April 2018 -
The One Who Liked Mushrooms

https://www.gofundme.com/memorial-for-dr-peter-metcalfe