Life Got My Goat

I used to be a mountain goat—I could climb mountains—indefatigable

but nowadays—I have been humbled by a thorn in my side

It’s so challenging for me

to breathe in my lot

consequently—

I inhale the works

and love of others

I gaze at the maps

rambled by hikers

tracks of bikers

carvings of skiers

and I learn to live

within their joys—

climbing in empathy

linking spirits vicariously

and I’m slowly improving

breathing in forgotten peace

and loving like oxygen

all family and friends

upon realms I never trod

everywhere...