Finish the Race

I still have so much to do. So many jokes to make. So many cats to pet. So many tattoos to get. So many favorite songs I haven’t heard yet. So many climbs to send. So many students to teach. So many teachers to learn from. So many friends to meet.

I still haven’t gotten to celebrate birthdays with so many of my favorite people. I haven’t gotten to climb in Yosemite or Acadia or even Seneca or the Red. I haven’t hosted a Thanksgiving in my own house yet. I haven’t finished my teacher training. I haven’t been to Spain. 

My cats need to be fed. My boyfriend needs to be kissed. My dad needs a climbing partner. My mom needs her best girl. My plants need watered. My bills need paid.