Hard thrust
you forced your way
through Her body
breaking layers of rock
penetrating Her surface
exposing Her under layers…
proudly erect
you stand
as a symbol
of raw power
wellness
Beginnings
beginnings
so much still hidden
unrevealed
tender
held close
uncurling slowly
surely
revealing
layer after layer
of what might be
will be
yielding
strong
vital
alive
opening
unfolding
becoming
Old Tattooed Woman
Old Woman, you stand with your feet at the water’s edge,
Your old skin gnarled and rough,
With heavy thighs marked by signs that people left.
What was their need that they left their names
And jagged hearts for me to see?
It must have been hard for you
Feeling the sharp point of the knife
Making cuts on your skin.
But in your most holy sacred place
You embraced their gifts and made them a part of you.
Old Tattooed Woman, your bark
Holds memories of those who were here before me
Their names marking your skin.
See? Your arms are wide and strong
Offering shade for those held in your embrace.
I wish to be like you and take in what hurts
And weather the pain by toughening up
Like you, I will be made strong by life’s pointed edges,
Made wiser by honoring what is,
And made holy by embracing what comes.
Ancient One
Ancient One,
your roots hold fast to the Earth drawing strength.
Your white hair
shimmers against the sun and speaks to me of wisdom.
Ancient One,
you rise through granite, claiming this space, standing ground.
Your gnarled branches reach out
across the rocks
holding Her close to you.
Old Wise One,
If I lay in your arms
will I be one with you?
Ancient One,
if I rest curled in your roots,
will I know wisdom too?
Ancient One,
for just this moment,
may I be with you?