Frigid air burns as it forces its way into my exhausted lungs.
A once steady rhythm turns into ragged gasps
desperately trying to satisfy my body’s need for oxygen.

The easy incline no longer seems as tame,
It transforms into a monster rearing up,
laughing at my goalless struggle.

I know my form is sloppy
as I fumble up the mountain -
my skis clanking unceremoniously
together.
A sharp contrast to the experienced movements my coach.

Frustration eats at me
as I continue to lose momentum.
Every fiber of my being screaming to stop the onslaught of pain.

Giving in is unacceptable.
The pain is worth it,
for the relief is sweeter when the goal is met.

I see the peak and a weight lifts from my shoulders.
I straighten my form and the air is not as frozen.
There is a light at the end of the tunnel.

The resulting adrenaline rush
and the pounding in my ears
are all rewards of my trying climb.