I seriously struggle with this "title" thing

I spent the first half of my life on the Cherokee Reservation of North Carolina. Every childhood friend of mine, every wise elder I went to for guidence, and every babysitter I ever had was Native. I myself, and my family, are not ourselves Native. At least, not enough to be significant. (though I mistakenly thought I was until I was like, 11..) A day has never gone by that I haven't thought about where I'm from, or felt the Smokey Mountains calling me home. I want so desperately to honor the influence so many wonderful Natives and their culture had on me. So much of their wisdom has comforted and guided me my whole life. I want a tattoo as a constant reminder of what these individuals, many whom have already passed, instilled in me at a young age. Their influence is what helped steer me onto a spiritual path. The last thing I would ever want to do is appropriate or in any way dishonor a culture and people so dear to my heart. How can I respectfully design this tattoo? If you have any input or advice as to how to do this the right way, I would greatly appreciate your help!! Thank you. Kate