The Strength to Keep Climbing
The freezing wind cut through Lena’s jacket, its edge lacerating her body like a razor, and she clung to the jagged rock face. Her breathing came in shallow gasps, her legs trembling under the duress of weight and relentless hours of climbing. She risked a glance at the looming peak, partly shrouded by swirling mist. It seemed as unreachable as distant stars.
“I don’t think that I can continue much longer,” Lena said under her breath.
Her brother Marcus was a few feet above, his movements almost slow, as if graceful. He had always been strong. He was the first to dive into any challenge without thinking twice, and today was no different. He looked back at her behind his shades, his eyes sensing her hesitation.
What did you say, Lena?” His voice was smooth yet laced with an undercurrent of concern.
“I. I just can’t, Marcus,” Lena managed to get out, her voice cracking from her frustration. “I thought I could, but this is too much. I feel like my legs are going to give out at any moment. Maybe I’m just not cut out for this.”
Marcus studied her, unreadable. He’d heard it all before. Honestly, it was from every climber who had started keen. But, as challenges arose, they began to question everything. He breathed deeply and chose his words carefully.
