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Aconcagua Expedition: The Soul of a Climber

The Soul of a Climber 

 

The mountains hold the soul,

And light fire in the hearts of some men.

It leads them to do things,

Others don't just understand.

 

It's not only the summits,

Though that's what we oft speak of.

It's the journey, the effort,

And so much more that we love.

 

It's trekking the valleys,

That lead to the trailhead.

And the anticipation of adventures,

During the journey ahead.

 

It's the early morning sun,

As if it illuminates the peaks.

All through the day until sunset,

These are the beauties we seek.

 

We realize it will take effort,

That there will be moments of pain.

But the mountain gives more back,

It is much more of a gain.

 

It's the time spent with others,

Telling tales of past climbs.

And of more ventures ahead,

That excite each climber's mind.

 

There is time spent together,

There is tile spent alone.

But mostly it is time in the mountains,

In this place we call home.

 

The time comes to leave, 

It invariably does.

But our hearts and souls have been nourished,

By these sacred mountains we love. 

 

-Tim Cavanagh


Comments (8)

Hola, Tim and the Team!  We hope your lungs are cleansed and your hearts are filled in your dance with Mother Nature.  We are right behind you in spirit.  Love, D and I

Posted by: Dick and Irene Simpson on

To our dad and his fellow mountaineers,

Your journey brings envy to our “home isolation”
but hope you’re enjoying God’s Divine Creation.
The mountains are beautiful and treacherous at best,
We hope you are eating, hydrating, and getting adequate rest.
You’ll be climbing and slogging through all sorts of weather
Just think of the camaraderie and memories you’re making together.
It is one of the best parts of these expeditions no doubt,
Along with reflection, prayer, and a few curses throughout.
We’re praying for you all and especially the “Soul of a Climber” who’s soles imprint on the trail
And look forward to you regaling us with your long mountaineer tale.

We love you, dad!

Love and God Bless,
Chris, Bo, Lillian, and Carl

Posted by: ChrisBoLillianCarl on

I knew as I read it was your work, Pops. Beautiful reflections. Proud of you for following your calling to the mountains. The kids and I went indoor rocking climbing today. They’ll show you their skills when you get back. We love you!

Posted by: Noel Imfeld on

That poem is a beautiful way to express what you are all doing up there in the heights.  If the poet is among you, please congratulate him on his talent - keep writing and keep climbing.

Posted by: Sandy Bemis on

Hola, Tim!  We know you are as close to Heaven in mind, body, and Soul as you can be on this second trip to the top. Safe stepping and a happy heart.  We love you. D and I

Posted by: Dick and Irene Simpson on

Beautiful poem by a beautiful soul. Strength, endurance and smooth climbing,to look over into the world. God speed! Be safe, Teri

Posted by: Teri Derr on

Keep up the step ups all the way to Camp 2
Rooting for you Joe
Daryl and Katie

Posted by: Daryl and Katie on

Beautifully written. Thinking of you! Sending you Strength & Stamina.

Love You,

Kelly

Posted by: Kelly on

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