I can handle this much.

Never thought I could for so long.

Traveling upwards on steps that became plateaus.

After awhile, the steps up do not feel like much of a difference.

The air feels just as thin as before and the struggle just as real.

So I climb higher not minding the burden.

***

I can handle this much, but only a hair more.

Never did think basic survival could become so challenging.

I do not believe gritting my teeth through life is supposed to be normal.

The exhaustion is beyond what I want to deal with.

I only have so much energy to go around after all.

Maybe the atmosphere up here is thin for a reason.

***

I can handle this much, but no more.

My mind and body rend under the pressure.

So dizzy from the thin air that I fear I cannot climb back down.

There is no higher step above me.

I stand by the edge of a dropoff all the way to Hell or maybe I’m already there.

All I know is that the air is not created for human living and I can handle no more.