There is something exhilarating about tattoos to put it simply. All of a sudden, there is this new part of your physical body that you had complete control over. It is something you get to grow with for the rest of your life. As with all things in life, people get tattoos for differing reasons. From my perspective, meaning is at the heart of it all. Of course, every unique individual will have different values and feelings about what classifies as meaningful. At the end of the day, the meaning of a tattoo is what it comes down to, no matter how it is defined.
I say this because even the people who fill their bodies as a canvas with ink after ink, often place value in the idea that they get to be a walking piece of art. Others make the lifelong decision in the memory of a loved one so that they have the chance to feel as though the person who passed on is still with them in everyday life. Some take the opportunity to stamp themselves with a permanent piece of encouragement with an inspiration quote or something of that nature.
My first tattoo is meaningful to me for a variety of reasons. One of the most important is that I got it done with my brother, we went in as tattoo virgins and each walked out with a scar of beauty. I love that when I pause to remember that day, my brother is a part of it. Siblings, best friends, and significant others are the typical pairings with whom people decide to share a tattoo. Sharing a tattoo with someone important in your life makes it that much more of an overall experience rather than just ink.
My inspiration came from a great appreciation and adoration I have for all of the amazing family and close friends life has blessed me with. When I look at my tattoo there is no regret, only good thoughts rushing to mind as I am reminded of the love I am surrounded by. When I grow old I certainly hope my feelings remain the same; but in my mind the worst-case scenario leaves me laughing at my nineteen year old self for actually following through with something I never thought I would.
HCXO!