skinned knees and knuckles

Well. It's time to move on. I'm closing this chapter of my life. And now, ladies and gentlemen. The show must begin :)

I tried to climb the hill. I should have stopped when the dirt caked up my shoes and ruined what little traction I had. I should have turned around when it came all the way up to my knees and muddied my pants. Even once more I should have called for help when holes were torn into my clothes and my knees were skinned raw; from all that reckless climbing. But I kept onwards and upwards... and now my knuckles are just as blotchy as my knees and I fear the only thing I haven't given is the one thing that makes me, well, me.
So I've decided to leave the mountain climbing for those prepared to offer what the terrain demands. I on the other hand will ride hot air balloons, escalators, and jet packs to the top. Don't worry because I'm not. I will get there... I've always been the dreamer in a pack of reality thinkers and it's time I joined my natural crowd.
I will get there... and my skinned knees and knuckles will have healed.