high ground

come hell or high water

Regardless of the hardships; no matter what difficulties may arise.

common ground

A characteristic or interest shared by multiple people or systems; any belief, etc. held in common.

ear to the ground

The practice or characteristic of carefully gathering information; a state or mindset of attentiveness.

eyes on the ground

One or more observers in an area of interest.

facts on the ground

The situation in reality as opposed to in the abstract.

friends in high places

Friends who have authority or influence and who can ensure that one's interests will be protected or furthered.

from the ground up

From the beginning; starting with the basics, foundation, or fundamentals.

get high

To intoxicate oneself with drugs or other substances.