Like magic, my raft ascended the mountain peak.
I’d hoped before reaching the top my guide would speak.
Though the next best thing to it I suppose,
He met me in person where the mountain rose.
With a gesture of his hand he bid me to see
A vast sea of clouds seemingly stretching for eternity.
A solitary bridge broke their consistent roll
“Though it requires no currency, there is still a toll.”
After waiting so long my guide’s voice had resurged.
“To make it across you must resist temptation and avoid any urge!”
In only moments, I understood what he meant.
Visions of my greatest desires had been sent.
One by one, the smokey images called out to me.
Of lives I wanted and loves not meant to be.
“Should you fall down, this dream will end.
You’ve come so far, do you want to start over again?”
Advice from my guide returned my sense
But I knew to keep moving before the next wave commenced.
My guide never judged me for the depravities he saw.
Or any embarrassments that came from the maw.
“We all have hidden desires that no one should see.
Not letting them control you seems strength enough to me.
The end is in sight and our final destination resides
For now we enter the desert of pride.”