Ascent
Come join me on a difficult climb.
If we lean back and look up,
a peak of democracy, stable institutions,
rule of law, and shared ideals.
Here at the base of high vertical walls,
we’re dwarfed by colossal blocks of hunger,
oppression, injustice, and violent conflict.
We commence a vertical journey
with no climbing gear, inching cautiously
up the lofty, precarious monolith of life.
Hunger, greed, and corruption
Gradually recede below the clouds.
Reaching blindly, our fingers discover
secure handholds of virtue.
Our boots engage footholds of ethics.
Our new compassion and mutual respect
elevate us toward peace.
We glimpse our human history far below.
With hope and perseverance,
we strive to escape our baser nature.
We stretch our bodies and minds ever higher,
gaining wisdom, tolerance, and understanding.
At last on the summit, our vision and effort
reward us with a just and peaceful world.
We exercise our full human rights,
coexist in harmony, and flourish.
We contribute to the good of humankind.
We are truly alive!
Will Walsh