There’s something frightening about going to the doctor and finding out that you’re going to get a shot or blood drawn, but the feeling of having a cluster of needles puncturing the skin at 50 to 3,000 times per minute feels liberating.
The first time I decided to get a tattoo, I was terrified.
Growing up in a strict environment made me fear bringing up the idea of a tattoo and the rejection I would receive when having something permanent on my body.
I received the full support of my mom but everyone else had judged me for wanting or even thinking of a tattoo.
Tattoos became a norm in my family after my sixth design. They have gone on my chest, leg and arm.
I still receive comments from time to time of how ridiculous I look with my “drawings.”
So, why would I and others put ourselves through pain and shame for something that will fade and wrinkle as we get older?
Tattoos have become a way for people to express or feel confident in themselves; that’s the case with me.
They have become part of me and my lifestyle.
Not all my tattoos have meaning, but they don’t need to, such as my half-sleeve tribal tattoo, American traditional ship, rose and swallow.
Although the American traditional designs have been around for decades, it’s a style that I love and feel comfortable with.
I used to care what people thought about me constantly, whether it was the way I dressed or the way I looked or how I talked.
I can’t imagine myself without tattoos. I have become more outspoken about my ideas and confident with my decisions.
It took me a while to figure out the type of designs I would like on my body and the way I would display them, but I do not regret the tattoos that I have invested in throughout the years.
I am aware of the stigma of tattoos in the professional workplace, but I have been fortunate enough to be in an environment where I don’t need to cover up my artwork.
My tattoos have been great conversation starters and it’s great to know that some may appreciate the art of body modification.
My body is my canvas and that does not make me better than any person who does not appreciate the art of tattoos, but it is my choice to modify my skin with designs that make me happy and give me confidence.
