"Memories and lifelong dreams etched
artfully on their skin.
My Mama is a work of art.
When we go out, my Mama
Gets attention everywhere."
In a world where so many people feel entitled to have a say about almost everything, whether it has anything to do with them or not, I found myself cheering for the young boy who tells this story. He wants readers to know that he sees his Mama as a real piece of art. She just doesn't need a frame.
She is covered in tattoos that have meaning for her. She is proud of every one of them. The child, while sitting in his mother's lap, points out pieces of art that are part of who she is. He explains that her right arm is testament to her life story ... one that says "Hey, world, this is me!"
As the two make travel through their community, they see others who have tattoos that help to tell their life stories. Reactions from those who don't know them vary: they all pay attention, but some don't seem to appreciate what is so important to his Mama and to him. Different people like different things. It is the way of the world.
His mother has taught him an important lesson that helps him deal with the silent stares.
"I learned from her to treat with kindness
everyone I see -
Tattooed or bare, I should not care, but just
let people be."
Would that we all were taught the same lesson. A scene at the end of the story shows Mama returning to her favorite place whenever she wants 'to honor a memory' with a new piece of art. That is as it should be!
Joyful, colorful art celebrates diversity in character, and body art. It's a wonderful way to get a conversation started.
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