Mortal climbers called Everest’s challenge mountaineering.
Hesitation overshadowed by competence, experience and valor.
You waged war on Everest.

Time stripped away the humanly trappings that bound you to earth.
Frayed and tattered the ropes that bound you to earth release you.
Your cold marbled form reaches upward in victory.
Like ancient Greek statues.

Your frozen marbled eyes gaze upward to Everest’s summit.
Ancient Olympic champions hail, the Victor’s laurels are yours.
Sleep with your beloved Everest, "because it’s there."
Climb with the Gods.

Mortal mountaineers left with the cold winds whispering, 
"because it’s there."

Your climbing axe gleaming gold in the sun,
Passes to other’s hands.

(c) 2000 John A. Vara, Author
Courtesy of Iliad Press