You have any tattoos? I do. Two. Tats are funny things. People get them for such a myriad of reasons; some are ‘what-the-hell’ moments and some are thought-out, purposeful memories.
Some people have no desire to get a tat, ever. Perhaps it’s the thought of the pain, or perhaps they have beliefs that make it undesirable, or maybe they just don’t like how they look. There are others who collect tattoos like badges and others who collect them like artwork.
The first one I got is a kinda big heart on my left arm up by my shoulder. I wanted a heart (but not a small, girlie one) on my arm so I could ‘wear my heart UNDER my sleeve’. That was the meaning. It reminds me to be careful in love. Does the meaning matter much now? Nope. I am in a wonderful relationship, the best, and I love Matt. But the tat remains. It is a memory.
The other tat is one I cherish because of the hows and whys of it all. It was something I had wanted for a while but only knew the concept of what I wanted not the exact design. I was out with friends and we began talking about tattoos and before long we are on our way to find somewhere to get some done. Three of us got tattoos that day. My friend Fabian drew (right then) the design that became the tat on my left leg, it’s a yin/yang fire/water symbol that is original and unique and something that represents not only the balance I seek daily, but true friends who know me and are the best.
The first tat, I don’t care much about anymore. It’s there, and part of me and my past, but the meaning is moot. The second, I will always love for the meaning and the story behind it.
I reckon most tats have meaning for the owner and that’s all that really matters. Will I ever get another? I don’t know. If the opportunity presented itself again, would I? Sure. Maybe. Knowing how I feel now about the two I have, it’d sure have to be a fun reason to get another before I’d do it.
When I see other people’s tattoos I always wonder what’s the meaning, if any. Stories. They are part of the stories our lives tell. ..and you know I love to hear people’s stories.
