In the words of Sir Edmund Hillary,
It is not the mountain that we conquer, it is ourselves.
In the Zen of mountain climbing, it is often true that one must stop short of the summit. There is no shame in doing so. It is not for a lack of ambition that one came so far. So turn, enjoy the view. This mountain has not defeated you. You have joined the ranks of many who came before, and left a trail for those to come.
There are more mountains to climb, and there you will find yourself. Again.
Tombstone Blues
Take care of yourselves.