On The Crossing Over

I had always wondered how the view might be.
At the top of the mountain, what might I see?
In the valley below, my eyes looked up high
And I planned how I'd make my trip to the sky.

So focused I was on conquering the hill,
I spent year after year honing my skill.
I endured the training to ensure I was fit,
Since the climb would test my mettle and wit.

I jumped over the foothills, not missing a stride
Clenching my teeth, I would not be denied.
"Slow down", some said, "this isn't a race"
But I paid them no heed as I shot up the face.

I sped up my pace as the apex drew near.
No time to rest now, I must persevere.
I reached the summit and surveyed the land
But suddenly realized there was nowhere to stand.

With no stable ground, I began to lament.
I stepped over the peak to start the descent.
The path down was much quicker than ever I planned
Without steps or a foothold, I slid down the sand.

I scratched and I clawed to stop my fast slide.
The effort was futile, yet harder I tried.
Now I was tired and I couldn't maintain
My previous vigor on this different terrain.

Downward I slid, ever nearing the base.
And nothing I tried would lessen my pace.
Soon I would find myself on the ground
On the opposite side with no path around.

I wished I had taken the chance on the climb
To slow down my pace and take some more time.
To stop and enjoy the views as I went,
Only realizing now what the others had meant.

On the ground again I looked to the top
And with tears in my eyes I considered my drop.
I wanted to go back and start it again
But there was no returning to where I had been.