- Helen Keller
 |
| Maori Chief - sketched in 1769 by Sidney Parkinson, artist on Captain Cook's 1st voyage to New Zealand Image from Wikipedia |
Tattoos have been used since the beginning of human time for the purpose of marking a significant event. The word itself comes from the Samoan word‘tatau’ which means ‘to mark something’.
"Ötzi the Ice-Man" (the Neolithic corpse discovered in 1991) bore several tattoos, including ones behind his right knee, his lower back, and both ankles. While we can only speculate as to the meaning of his tattoos, it goes without saying that it must have been to mark a significant event or time in his life.
I've never been a big fan of tattoos. You only need to ask two of my sons, who will tell you their stories of my reaction to theirs. I mean, you have to be absolutely certain you're going to want to spend eternity with that marking, right? If a mummified Neolithic man still displays his tattoos to the world, that's one enduring art form.
Still, there is something to it, this practice of making a mark on our skin to mark a significant event in our lives. In some cases, it may be about using physical pain to express internal pain, but not always. They can also express great joy, marking the occasions of love in our lives. I must admit, I see the sacred sentiments in such tattoos.
My great-nephew's father, brother, and wife decided to express their love and their pain at his passing with tattoos. I found their choices to be poignant and dear. I'm certain it was a wonderful bonding experience, and I look forward to hearing all about it, and seeing the tattoos for myself, very soon.
Here are the photos from their experience:
This one is from Josh's father, and includes favorite pet name from Josh's childhood.
This one is from Josh's brother, who commemorates their love for Maurice Sendak's "Where the Wild Things Are"
...and this one is from Josh's wife:
The purple rose signifies Cystic Fibrosis awareness, and the green ribbon is the symbol of organ donors.
I can feel Josh's smile at these sacred sentiments.
Today, may you find a way to remember a loved one.
The music for today is called "Divine Remembrance". Rupert Guenther (on electric violin) & Paul Armitage (on keyboard) performance from the "Gratitude" CD. Recorded live in concert Perth Australia 2004. Enjoy...
