The Fall

First expedition

Second day

We walked down into the valley

Trudging along with our heavy packs

and light hearts

A stream crossing

Came upon us

The water silently moving

Across the dewy morning air

Over rocks

And pebbles

And disappearing out of sight

I take one step

Closely behind a friend in front

I take another step

Following as I should

And suddenly

Slip

Into the icy, clear water

Down goes my pack

As it lands firmly in the depth of the river

I'm frozen

No really

I'm frozen

The chilly breeze is highlighted

 By the moisture of my clothing

I start to shiver

Uncontrollably

As I realize that every layer I have on

Has been soaked straight through

I panic

I let out sharp breaths

I can't get up

The 45 pound pack 

Weighs me down

And feels like a monster

Attached to my back 

I start to hyperventilate 

As I feel the weight being released

Someone is lifting me

Out of the flowing river

Still sending chills beyond my core

I stand up 

I cross the river

Step by step

Avoiding another spill

I change

New layers

New warmth

I laugh

I'm fine. 

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