TGR is honored to present a new film, Mountain In The Hallway.
Last summer in my fight against cancer and pursuit of climbing the Grand Teton, I was forced to confront the disappointing reality of life’s challenges. During this period of time I realized that my reaction to tragic events may very well be the only thing I have control of. Would I allow myself to become defeated and depressed or attempt to find a greater meaning in my defeat?
This poem is my attempt at the latter. It’s a reminder that my goals are simply a reflection of myself. The objective is to use these goals as motivation to become my best self. To take advantage of every moment that’s given to me as best I can and not squander my time. I believe that life can be made infinitely better by these challenges that force us to improve. Whether they be self imposed or events outside our control, these obstacles help us grow.
What’s your Mountain in the Hallway?
Mountain In The Hallway
A walk within fluorescent caves
All alone, scared but brave
At the end a mountain hung
Reluctant Journey just begun
As I walked
a man would follow
All in black
His hood was hollow
I lost him once
But it was felt
To stop the man
I hurt myself
The path I took
I can’t recall
Focus set
beyond the Hall
Nowhere to run
I tried to flee
To poison him
I poisoned me
Locked and loaded
with no guns
I shot the man
With many suns
Finally I reached the wall
The mountain and I standing tall
I could touch it, feel it, see
Through the mount, reflected me
From his hood
These words did spout
“What truth be found
atop this route?”
To which I smiled
Though I hadn’t yet done it,
Turned and said
“I am the summit”
Mountain In The Hallway: Words and artwork by Tate MacDowell
What’s your #MountainInTheHallway? TGR will be encouraging the community to share a story on social media that celebrates how the outdoors inspires and helps you through life’s ups and downs. Whether it’s an after work pass lap that helps you through the week or the dream trip that keeps you motivated, we all have a mountain in the hallway that propels us forward. Share yours and tag #MountainInTheHallway and @tetongravity on any social network.
About The Author
stash member Tate MacDowell
I'm a video producer and owner/founder of Death Cookie Entertainment. I've worked for companies like Teton Gravity Research & Brain Farm. I'm currently living in Cardiff By The Sea, CA. I'm a surfer, skier, father and currently battling cancer.
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