Above the Noise

How high should I climb?
The air is cool, pure,
free from earthly haze
or horns – or shouts

The path goes higher
Will it be worth the effort?
An endless turquoise sky
reveals no limits

Golden Aspens dance slowly in the gentle breeze

In the distance:
faint drum beat sounds,
tiny scents of acrid smoke,
anguished cries from children and widows,
the huff of men making plans.

I do not think they will go away,
these sounds or scents.
if I climb higher.

When I climb back down,
they will be replaced by urgent, angry sounds.
harsh words and closed minds.
There is no peace.