This poem is inspired by Langston Hughes “My People” which is an uplifting poem. I wanted to celebrate the excitement and joy of the variety of mountain experiences. Much as I loved scree running decades ago, it’s now actively discouraged because of the erosion caused.
September 2023 is Blood Cancer Awareness Month. It is also Child Cancer Awareness Month. Every day 10 children in the UK are diagnosed with cancer. Of those lucky enough to survive, many will have long-term side-effects that may significantly impact their lives forever.
I am posting one poem per day to recognise this and raise money for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. This charity provides sailing and other outdoor adventures for children and young people aged 8-24 who have been treated for cancer. But it’s more than that. There’s a package of support around this including siblings, return trips, volunteering opportunities and so on. The Trust also works hard to ensure their work is environmentally sustainable. You can make a donation HERE!
Scree running is a new term for me. Upon looking it up, I am reminded of quote a once heard from modern artist Annie Coxey who described her work as "slipping and glimpsing" and said that instead of looking at her art directly, you should instead look as if you were slipping and glimpsing. I've tried it many a time, sometimes not on purpose, but what a thrill to discover joy in a place where your feet are not firm. Scree running must be like that. I think many of your poems are too. May memories of those scree moments in beautiful places fill your dream cup until it overflows.
Though I LOATH scree. Everything else about the mountains makes my heart sing. Walking in scree terrifies me!