I know I am not at the top.

This cannot be all there is.

Some grand end design when I can rest.

Shouting “I did it!” into the world with defiance.

Obstacles overcome and conquered.

True and final win.

***

I am not at the top but I am higher than I used to be.

The ground floor instead of the basement.

The stairs were challenging but made a difference.

I learned that there are other floors now.

That stairs go even further up.

The time and effort more than worth it to climb.

***

So I will ascend.

Climb higher than I ever have before.

Beyond the walls I know for I am an explorer by heart.

I know there is more above the ceiling.

People go up and down past me.

So I will ascend for that final victory.