By Sara Kandler
The jagged edge comes into view
as I approach
leaning backward as my feet pace forward
through sparse grass
need to see
how steep
how rough
how treacherous this bluff
dark red like raw meat
its crags like teeth
My chest clenches
stomach churns
blood burns
A sandy path loops around this cliff
and most sanguinely choose that route
though they know deep down it goes nowhere
they don’t probe
rely on false hopes
utter resignation
Is it alright then
to tackle this trial
head on
and who am I
to try
I turn and pulley my weight
over the rock ledge
with deepening dread
lock with your gaze
then fix mine straight ahead
legs splayed against this palisade
knees and elbows
grinding gears
me a swinging chime
dangling in the wind
sunset behind
this sheer face
mine
a straining middle aged spider woman
imagine me
a superhero
Finally touch down
my legs give with fatigue
into hard packed ground
solid under my feet
breathing now steady
a normal heartbeat
My numb fingers
nudge loose
the rappel rope
to somewhat frame
the empty cat dish in the corner
throw pillows out of place
kids running a little bit late
and of this feat
when I soared
while descending
time leaves but a trace