Don’t do it! Don’t you dare look below.

The glaring, blinding white of the snow.

Stop. Take it easy. Breathe in then out.

Slow down a minute, just find a new route.

There! To the left, behind the small drift,

Gently shuffle, then glide, from the ski lift.

Keep the hands steady, and keep the knees tight.

Goggles on, now check left, then right.

Don’t look down the mountain, face your fear.

You chose your path, destiny’s here!

The snow, little mirrors, reflect the sun’s light,

Blinding the eyes, increasing the fright.

Don’t stop now! Don’t you lose you tempo.

The whirling, spinning feel of vertigo.

Quick. Flit through the trees. Weave in then out.

So close to the end, don’t despair or doubt.

Finally. A path troubled with trepidation and grief,

Fell away, to pride ... pride and relief.