The Mayan Warrior Princess

The Mayan Warrior Princess In eerie recurring dreams, like things seen dimly before dawn, blurred memories of a temple pyramid resurface from an era long gone. My ancient soul trapped between two different worlds, one new - the other centuries old, remind me that I have been here before, and of that I am absolutely sure. Familiar faces and scenes from a past life I see, recollections of Piedras Negras continue to haunt me, with images of Lady K’abel, Mayan warrior princess, I used to be. Time’s reluctant prisoner, I sense it will never set me free. In a foggy haze, like a sleepwalker in sluggish slow motion, body painted cobalt blue, I am ready for my heavenly mission. Midnight velvet hair flowing, I lie on a red bloodstained stone altar, as temple priests prepare me for the sacred sacrificial slaughter. Piously chanting their practiced prayers in unison, they adulate the gracious gods for a new divine king’s ascension. The sharp knife swiftly pierces my sweating, feverish virgin skin, but reliving this scene, I no longer feel pain or anything. And as the universe greedily grasps my restless soul, I float into oblivion knowing the harvest will be renewed and ultimately, I will be reborn. Note: This poem is dedicated to my maternal great grandmother who was a Mayan. The Piedras Negras, mentioned above, was a thriving Mayan city-state in Guatemala, Central America, from about mid-7th century BC century BC to about 850 AD. While this site is considered remote, during my childhood, I visited frequently with family who still live in this fascinating region. When I visit, I am completely at home and the experiences are amazingly mystical. Piedras Negras means "black stones" in Spanish. The name in the language of the Classic Maya has been read in Maya inscriptions as Yo'k'ib', meaning "great gateway" or "entrance." 06-25-2014 Contest: Past Lives Sponsor: Carolyn Devonshire Placement: 3rd