Tattoo

The conference was one-on-one
to create a vision -
measurements were taken
then a date set to complete
the drawing and provide a ritual
so the infusion of ink into my skin

created a memory larger than the pain
with symbolism in every line
part of a prayer
each time I look at my arm

I will see the silver trail of my ancestors
a bracelet tattooed on my wrist
turquoise and a broken arrow

to remember when they walked the earth
in harmony with the Great Spirit
preparing the path for me to follow.

I met with Jennifer from Mermaid's Tale
to set up for my tattoo 11/11/11.