Turtle and the Log

scratching
and reaching,
and slipping back down.
indomitable-
intrepid-
inexorable in his pursuit
of Golden warmth.
Cool waters beckon…
soothing waters.
but
he is focused.
Clawing his way up
retreating some,
but always continuing.
no shame in failing
for failure is not an option.
He climbs atop the log.
Respite until the next challenge
until the next opportunity
to live.