"Hawaiian Petroglyphs"

"Hawaiian Petroglyphs" were the Hawaiian's way of recording their history.

"Hawaiian Petroglyphs"

Ancient Hawaiians had no printed words

Their history was carved on lava rocks

Preserved there for us to share

 Memories stored as if in a lava box

  

 Petroglyph origins we are not sure

We don't even know their age

 First etched simple stick figures

Later fancy style reviles a new stage

 

Voyagers brought horses and cattle

Showed up carved on Hawaii trails

Along shore are ships and fishermen

Turtles and whales with flapping tails

 

In the black lava are birth symbols

 Warriors, men planting in the earth   

Dancers and marchers and deity

A Church showing spiritual rebirth

 

Today petroglyphs grace hotel grounds

 Tours offered by Hawaiian story tellers

But beware "Kapu" watch your step

Don't wear down these ancient dwellers

 

Preserve history take photos to enjoy

Wear sturdy shoes lava is unforgiving

Bring lots of water and sunscreen

This gift in stone is worth reliving

©2011 Ginger Sizemore