The Significance of My Tattoos: A Personal Journey of Self-Expression
Every tattoo tells a story, and my life is no exception. From the Black Flag tattoos representing my passion for music to the Celtic cross symbolizing memories of my daughter, these inked marks reflect the chapters of my journey. This article will delve into the significance of my first tattoos and how they have evolved over time.
My First Tattoos
My first tattoo was a set of Four black bars representing the band Black Flag. At that time, it held a significant meaning as that band was my favorite. However, despite my fondness for the band, I no longer have the tattoo. It's now covered, as is the rest of my body. Another early tattoo was a small heart on my wrist, done in black ink. It held no special meaning at the time but now serves as a reminder of my first love and the start of my artistic journey.
Early Struggles with Mental Health
I had my first tattoo at the age of 56, though I had wanted one much earlier, in my 20s and 30s. Initially, I was strongly against it, feeling very nervous. The tattooist helped me ease my fears and thoroughly explained the process. At the time, I didn't have a specific design in mind, so I opted for the name Michael tattooed on my left arm. This tattoo was significant in a different way as I was deeply struggling with mental health issues at 13 and my sanity was maintained by the Pokemon trading game.
Miscellaneous Tattoos and Their Meanings
Later, I got a little devil on my shoulder simply because I liked the design. Another tattoo was a Celtic cross with a blue butterfly on top, which held deep personal significance. This tattoo was inspired by the beautiful blue butterflies that appeared in our yard after our daughter's death. We designed the tattoo with the belief that these butterflies represented my daughter's spirit. Despite not believing in reincarnation, we cherished the beautiful sight of these butterflies.
When I was 17, I begged my mom to sign for my nose piercing, but she firmly refused. Instead, she agreed to a small Pisces symbol tattoo in between and slightly above my shoulder blades. While it seems illogical, my nose piercing came several months later, on my 18th birthday. Despite my mother's reservations, the Pisces symbol came to symbolize my passion for the zodiac and my personal connection to the ocean.
Beyond the Tattoos: A Deeper Insight
Each of these tattoos reflects a significant moment in my life. They are not merely decorative but serve as loud and permanent symbols of my experiences, emotions, and beliefs. From the first bars representing my favorite band, to the heart reminding me of my first love, and the devil just because I liked it, each inked mark has a story to tell.
My tattoos are a testament to my personal growth and resilience. They continue to evolve, reflecting the chapters of my journey and the deeper meanings behind each mark. If you're considering tattoos, remember that each one should have a significant personal meaning, as they will forever be a part of you.