Thwarted

The sign read
'inexperienced climbers beware'
(arrow pointing to alternate).

The ascent precipitous
narrow path boulder strewn
criss-crossed with treeroots
helpfully gripping the soil
grudgingly assisting our climb.

At the cascades the
tumbling waters were a sight
yet fear of a misstep
and wildly winging heart
dulled the image to a
delirious troubled mirage.

A mile up the mountain
we could rest and
lave tired feet in the
crystal stream
           cold as death
       clear as a wish
  pure as my fear.

In retrospect I regret
my refusal to go on
valuing as I did my
every limb -- for the memory
of a peerless overview
and promise of more

at the summit pricks my
frailty
         goads your recall.
If I promise
                 same time
           same place
      next year?