COMPASS

a slender, piercing needle tearing its way through thin flesh.
a ring with four dominant directions
and four areas, more "gray" than sure.
an image formed from ink embedded under skin.
a portrayal of a journey filled with hard work, 
discovery, pain, and maybe, one day, success.
the uncertainty that lies ahead, 
and the track that must remain stone.
a road filled with setbacks, financial strains,
and aches that keep eyes wide awake.
time without family, peace, or comfort, 
and independence that overstays its welcome.
a lack of home, but a field of freedom.
a permanent scar left in a fragile position.
an unhidden secret available to the world.
a gamble that may facilitate a future lack of control.
a steel symbol of HOPES and DREAMS.
an entire heart of courage, desire, and drive.
a reminder of ME, finally solid, stone, ME.
the uncertainty that lies ahead,
the track that must remain stone.
.compass.