A panther rests on her hip—strong, sentient, and confident.
She lived adventures in far away lands.
She has spilled her blood in the streets.
She has traveled at 40+ miles per hour using her own power and strength.
She is the long lost progeny of Poseidon and Athena.
She was the chieftess of a Bonobo tribe in a former life.
She has felt bones crush on impact.
She awakens the Kundalini in those around her.
She has incited laughter in children and held friends while they cried.
She has swum with turtles, sharks, and mermaids.
She has felt triumphs along with the tears of deep, black sorrow.
She savors the fruits of her labor.
She has made many mistakes.
She has been stung by exotic insects and lived to tell the tale.
She has made love and screamed and cried, sometimes all at once.
She has lived loudly.
She has exited her body and flown the stratosphere.
She sees you in her dreams.
She cherishes each connection to other human beings and demigods.
She has been taught grace and compassion through chronic disease.
She is madly in love with her life partner.
She has learned the most important thing is love.
Love.
Love.
She is the woman with the panther tattoo.
[Note: I admit I have a panther tattoo, the rest is up to you. Remember, what you see in her is also in you. ~Namaste~]
Thanks to S. Larsson, author of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, for the inspiration for this post. I can’t wait to read your trilogy and meet you in person someday.
[Photo courtesy Belindah via Creative Commons license]
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And those are the reasons why I so, so love the woman with the panther tattoo, and am so honored to be her friend. Much love to you, my spirit sister.
Jay Schryer´s last [type] ..What A Wonderful World
Hi Jay Bird,
To my brother — you are full of love and light. Thanks for being here today while I tried something a little different from the usual. You ROCK.
~xo
Beautiful and dear Lori what a way to celebrate yourself. I congratulate you and fell in love with the panther tattoo lady too. xox Wilma
Wilma Ham´s last [type] ..Wilma’s friends on Intimacy has consequences
Hi Wilma Lovely,
I’m not sure why I’m feeling emotional today, but I am and seeing you makes my heart smile.
Thanks sweet sweet friend. I can’t get (and give) enough love lately. It’s wonderful. You are wonderful.
~xo
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Jay Schryer, JaneBeNimble. JaneBeNimble said: @janebenimble –> The Woman with the Panther Tattoo http://bit.ly/bbx8nb [...]
Beautiful! I’m reading and thinking, wow, Lori and I are so very different… and I love it!
Hi Vered,
I’m honored to see you here. I’ve seen your avatar often and could kick myself for not visiting you over at your blog sooner. Isn’t life grand? I think the same thing when I’ve visited your blog — you are so different, but yet so beautiful and alive. Maybe you’re the yin of my yang?
Lori, you have a panther tattoo? So cool! Cass has a cute little butterfly one! Me? I have a low pain threshold so I’ve never gotten a tattoo!
Today’s post reminds me of the singer Natalie Merchant and her excellent album “Ophelia”. On that is a song of the same name. The lyrics are in a similar vein to yours, and as such could be about any woman in history. Fabulous!
Oh, and you’ll get an email response soon. I’ve just been struggling a bit with that last question. Struggling! Me! Moi! Can you believe it?
Yes, yes, Tony, it’s a result of being 18 and amongst a tribe of crazy compadres in the military. Hey, at least I didn’t end up the girl with a tattoo of a bonsai tree near her “you know what”. I told her, “Woman, you’re crazy, if you ever have kids, it’s going to turn into a Redwood tree!” ha ha
That’s so Cassy, a cute sweet butterfly. Awww, so cute. I love her.
Hey, thanks for alerting me to the Natalie Merchant song. I don’t remember that one but I’m a fan of hers, so I’m looking forward to checking it out straight away. It’s kind of where I was going with this post — so thanks for commenting. I think all of us could write something like this if we sifted through our memories and expanded our thoughts a bit. Right?
No worries, Tony. Take your time. I am soooo excited to have had the opportunity to interview (hang out) with you and Cassy. (Yes, that’s right folks, you’ll have Tony right here for a Front Porch post where we’ll laugh and share some stories.) Stay tuned.
Thanks for stopping by, mate.
Cheers!
Hi Lori:
Wow…thanks for some great thoughts that serve as a great reminder of who you are…a pretty cool, special person! I have not read any of Stieg Larsson’s books, but I keep hearing about them. I look forward to a possible future review?! Great job, as always, my friend.
Tim´s last [type] ..Community All-Stars
Hi Tim,
Well, if I’m a special person, YOU are a special person — what you see in me is in you. Absolutely. Thanks, Tim.
Yeah, I agree, I need to either get the trilogy from the library or just break down and order them. I hear over and over about how wonderfully they are written. So, I’ll hopefully do that before the summer is over.
Have a great day, Tim, and your support is always super great. Thank you.
How beautiful. How honest. How vulnerable. How rich. Love it. Although I do not have a tattoo, I can see some of myself in your words as I think almost anyone can. I have been thinking about getting a tattoo of a phoenix. Appropriate, huh? Thanks for sharing your wonderful essence with us.
Hey Debbie,
So lovely to see you here — I love it when you visit, soul sister.
One thing I can certainly say is that I’m glad I got in a place that is more easy to cover. I’ve always liked it, but during formal things and such, it’s not always the best thing to be showing — I suppose it’s just a matter of respect for others.
And, yes, Debbie, a Phoenix is perfect for you! I love it! I love it! Let me know what you decide. I’ve never regretted getting a tat, to be honest. I say, Go for it.
Love to you, my friend.
Lori,
Always nice to see you spreading your wings a bit. Each time we learn something new about you, it is like peeling the petals off of a beautiful flower, revealing even more beautiful petals beneath.
Something folks don’t know about me? Hmmm. I’m pretty certain that the Seinfeld writers stalked me for a few years – I AM George Costanza.
George
George Angus´s last [type] ..Entertain The Write Idea
Hi George,
This was definitely a stretch for me. I was talking to a friend of mine recently, and she mentioned she’s trying to be more “herself” and open in her posts — and it really comes through in her writing and I’m loving her posts lately. Then, YOU, my friend, pointed me in that direction, too, in a response to one of my comments at your blog. So, I though I’d give it a try. (Thank you!)
You know what? I think it’s the most fun I’ve ever had writing one of these things. Amazing, right?
Oh, I’m glad this was like peeling the petals off a flower as opposed to peeling the skin of an onion. (ha ha) But, then again, onions are strong, spicy, and good for us — so that wouldn’t have been bad, either. (I digress…)
So, thanks for popping over George Costanza. OMG, so funny. I hadn’t thought of it before, but you’re kind of right on there. Well, I’d say more of a studly George, more funny, and a much better writer.
~xo!
Hi Lori,
Love the simple way to express the complexity of a human being. There’s so much to each one and going through life is such a journey of learning and discovery with many many things to experience, with the opportunity to exercise the human part in us.
We celebrate people, we celebrate the human condition, we celebrate you
Raul
Alien Ghost´s last [type] ..Simplicity
Hi Raul,
You have a way with comments, Raul. I think it’s that succinct writing style you’re so good at. Thank you, my friend.
It’s really true, as we traverse our memories, if we pluck some of the ones that stand out, and frame them in the heroic moments they really are, it can be quite amazing. This life, this amazing life — we have the opportunity to be human and live the essence of so many opportunities. I think it’s remarkable, this life.
I celebrate you too, Raul. It’s been fun getting to know you.
~xo
This is wonderful – I have read it twice and keep thinking, could I write something like that. It is mystical and magic and revealing without being so. Wonderful words and pros!
Hi The Exceptional Woman,
You’re too kind, too kind. But, I thank you as this was initially a stretch for me. I highly recommend trying this. If anything it’s really fun!
Just think about some of the moments in your life that stand out far beyond other memories. Frame the essence of the memory as the heroine your already are. Be a goddess, be wonderwoman, be a heroine! It’s already in you, and writing with your true self is so very much fun. If you write a post like this, please let me know. I’d love to read it (and I’ll link it here, too)!
Great to see you again — I’m sending love your way with lots of smiles and hugs.
Hi Lori – This is so deep and rich and inspiring. Like you’re channeling your inner magician, naming and claiming yourself. I get such a sense of who you are and what it’s like to be in your own skin from it. Perfectly wonderful!
Patty – Why Not Start Now?´s last [type] ..Meaning Mondays- An Invitation to Dance
Hi Patty,
You are too kind, but oh so sweet! I’ll take it!
I’m glad you like this post, it was certainly a stretch for me, but I’ll admit that I loved writing it. I like how you framed that — “your inner magician…” You’re such a great writer, Patty. Thanks for popping by and for your constant support. Thank you my friend.
~xo
Lori,
Now to get right on that appt. after a long day out of the house slacking with hubs!
This is mind blowing. Talk about someone who knows how to suck the marrow from life. You are living an amazing one and I’m thrilled we’re friends.
Tess Bold Life´s last [type] ..Interview with Simon Hay
Hi Tess,
What could be better than slacking with your hubs! I love it! Love it!
When I look back at all the crazy stuff I did (and I’m still on this side of the dirt) it really amazes me these days. I think you’re right, I really did suck the marrow from life — but I hope I paid it forward, too.
I’m glad I got to blow YOUR mind for once, instead of the other way around.
~xo
Hi Lori .. that is a wonderful poem .. or set of maxims on life .. it’s so strong ..and the crashing wave picture just pulls it all together .. I can see the white surf, the hues of blue and the innate strength of this lithe woman as she powers through life to the best of her ability .. with one soft landing all the time – love. Wonderful – thank you .. Hilary
Hilary´s last [type] ..Could this be a sitcom – or a break out sitcom Ever had a one word – at a time – conversation Fish and Chips – how do you spell it
Hi Hilary,
Oh my, you’re so kind. Thanks for mentioning the wave crashing — I do see the waves as a sort of metaphor for life. So strong, so powerful, and everything always works out the way nature intended.
Your comment is beautiful, I love it. Thanks for being here today. Love to you, my friend.
~xo
Awesomeness, Lolo! I had tears in my eyes as I read it. I think this is my favorite post you’ve ever written. I love it, love it, love it!!!
That’s it, I’m getting a panther tattoo. Or maybe a kitten, ’cause I haven’t done THIS much stuff.
Hi Lisis (Meow),
I have to admit it, it was just too much fun.
It’s really quite amazing — I read often to write from the heart for the strongest prose. And, with this one I really let ‘er rip! I pulled off my outer shell and let my cape fly.
And, don’t even try saying that you haven’t done THIS much stuff, Lisis. I don’t believe it. No way. No how.
(You’re awesome.)
~xo
My favorite tattoo I have is part of my sleeve on my right arm. It’s a topless geisha (a little cheeky I admit), with a dagger raised. She’s fighting a dragon and protecting a pearl she’s holding from him.
The pearl is representative of the good in her, which she is protecting from the outside influences of the world.
I’m not sure if that has anything to do with your post, I just got excited when I read about tattoos!!
Hi Joshua,
I say, “Be cheeky,” tattoo man. Yee haw! Be you, it’s all you, and you are awesome. I think that’s cool and I love the meaning behind your tat — it’s so lovely & beautiful.
And, just for the record, 1/2 the reason I blog is to hang around with awesome people like yourself. I don’t care if what you have to say has anything to do with my post or not — I simply enjoy having you here. I’ve had people pop by here just to say hello (nothing to do with my post) and I LOVE IT.
So, just keep being you, Joshua, that’s all I ask. Oh, btw, my cousin has tattoo sleeves, too. I think they’re groovy.
~xo
Hello Lori!
Whoa!!! Awesome post and I can feel your energy coming through. You’ve revealed much about yourself in this post, Lori, and I believe there is a bold power in becoming vulnerable.
You wanna know, Panther Woman, what I think is the most awesome thing? The most awesome thing is that you are still, right this moment, still Panther Woman! You are still this woman, this woman who brings so much lovingkindness to the world around her. You are still the woman who faces life with a loving fierceness, who will not allow any situation or circumstance to shackle her spirit! Stay bold my friend. You are impacting lives, and I count it as one of life’s blessings to have been influenced by your words, and especially by your actions.
Much peace and many blessings to you!
Something about me you don’t know? Hmmm Well, I have three tattoos of my own. One on each arm and one in the center of my back, between the shoulders actually! LOL
Hi Keith,
Whoa — you’re so kind! And, all this even while you’re on vacay. What a lovely thing to read today.
Ha — I like it, Panther Woman. Maybe I should hire a designer to make me a real panther suit I can wear to spread good deeds across the land.
Thanks so much, Keith, it’s been such a pleasure getting to know you over these many months (wait, I think it’s been at least a year.) Fun!
Much peace and blessings to you, too. And, cool, you have a triad of tattoos? AWESOME! Keith, you’re one cool cat in my book.
~xo
Lori,
Wow..this is so powerful..your words yes, but the sentiment behind your words, the Divine that is within that you shared with us so openly, so beautifully..You could actually use this as your morning affirmation..*I* am the woman with the panther tattoo..I *am* the woman with the panther tattoo..and so on..
Your energy is transmitted from another realm..and that is lovely to have reflected..
You’ve actually given me courage to rethink a Phoenix tattoo..*I* am the woman who has risen from the ashes..hmm..is that a post formulating??
Thank you!
Joy´s last [type] ..Monday Blessing- A “Peaceful Easy Feeling”…
Hi Joy,
I like the idea of using this as an affirmation, and I think I already subconsciously do. Thanks, Joyful Joy.
I also love that you say the energy here is transferred from another realm. I kind of felt that as I was writing. Almost like someone else was writing this. Then I thought, Hurry, quick! Hit publish before it disappears! (LOL)
A post by your in this vein would be lovely, Joy (and a tattoo, too!). I say, Go for it!
~xo
Lori,
I loved this writing. It’s so full of life and energy. My favorite line is “She has lived loudly.” No clue why this line delights me so…it doesn’t really fit me, but it does make me smile:~)
To the girl with the Panther tattoo…you must get the other books in the trilogy. They are wonderful:~)
Sara´s last [type] ..Story Photo- What’s to See
Hi Sara,
Thanks so much, I really appreciate it. And I giggled when you said you had no clue why. I thought that was funny. Well, I DO know why and from what I see — your creative side absolutely lives loudly. All in a good way, of course.
I actually haven’t read any of they books yet — it was just the title that inspired me. But, if just the title can do this to me, I’m absolutely getting the books. I’m so sad Larsson is no longer walking the Earth with us — it also makes me want to read them even more. I want to read his skillful prose and be touched by his spirit.
Thanks, Sara, for popping over here.
Panther Woman,
You, sweet friend, embody life and all it’s meaning. And I feel that wrap of love here today, and in all the beauty you bring to this world…always…
Much peace, big hugs, and infinite love…
Lance
Lance´s last [type] ..The Power Of A Smile
Thank you, Lance. I appreciate you being here and also for you kind Tweetie.
I’d love for you to do a post like this — let your cape fly!
Much peace and infinite love to you, too, Lance of the Light Givers.
~xo!!!!
Hi Lori – I did it!! It is the post up today. I left the piano lines as is because the idea is that I am not the player of the music but the instruments themselves.
Thank you for the inspiration and for the thoughts!!
The Exception´s last [type] ..She is the Woman Also Known as Hope
Hi M!
Lovely, awesome, beautiful, inspiring — all of it!
I love your post!
I’m so glad you decided to write She is the Woman Also Known as Hope. Thanks for coming back to tell me about it, too. I hope this exercise brought you happiness and celebration for your birth month, too.
Thanks, TE, you’re the best.
~xo