I wrote this poem in July 2023 following a Shelter Movers move that required our small team to work on probably what was the hottest day of the summer and to move a woman into a fifth floor apartment – with no elevator. This poem reflects the efforts required of our team but just as important, captures the journey this woman had been living for years and how this move was hopefully a first major step in moving to a life free of abuse and violence. It is a long climb and journey up thousands of stairs. And often requires others to step forward to help and to offer hope and caring.
One step. One step at a time. My knees were aching and felt like jelly. My breath was ragged. My back was bent. Sweat poured down my face and arms.
The climb had been long, and yet the stairs kept coming. No relief in sight with the landing beyond my vision which was focused on the next step. The load in my arms was getting heavier with every passing moment.
Pounding. The pounding was getting louder. There were voices. Voices of encouragement. Outstretched arms to take my load. A bottle of water. I was not alone.
I looked up. The door was open. The air was cool. I had arrived. Tired but refreshed.
Smiling faces about me.
The climb for the time over. A moment to celebrate. My burden lightened and my prayers answered. My faith restored. Ready for the next set of stairs.