I got my first tattoo at the tender age of 18, setting off on a new adventure with a close friend. While she opted for a charming blue star on her foot, I boldly chose a 6-inch angel to grace my back. Leaving the tattoo parlor, my skin was throbbing beneath the protective plastic wrap covering my fresh ink, but the rush of excitement and self-assuredness overshadowed any fleeting worries about my mom’s potential reaction. The thought of future regrets didn’t weigh on my mind; I was simply too thrilled to care!
Now, I’ve heard plenty of tales of tattoo regret. Some folks lament the permanent changes to their skin, while others wish they had picked a different design altogether. I can empathize; after all, I’ve tangoed with regret in various forms. But when it comes to my tattoo? Not even a smidge of regret.
Surprisingly, my lack of remorse over that tattoo is a bit of a twist in my story. I’m no stranger to impulsive decisions that I end up regretting later. I was just a kid when I made that choice, and the design isn’t something I’d go for today. It has faded significantly over the last two decades, and let’s not even start on the unfortunate resemblance of the angel’s foot to a certain male anatomy. Trust me; once you see it, you can’t unsee it. But despite all that, I don’t regret it.
In fact, I’ve added several more tattoos to my collection in recent years, and guess what? I don’t regret those either! While I might not be head over heels for every single design and some could use a little tweaking, regret is nowhere on my radar.
People often gasp, “But they’re permanent!” True, but that’s part of the charm for me. In a world where change is the only constant, my tattoos serve as a reminder that some things can last. They inject a bit of humor into life and remind me not to take myself too seriously. What’s on the outside pales in comparison to what’s within.
Now, I know the naysayers will say tattoos can hinder job prospects. However, as old stereotypes fade and workplaces evolve, tattoos are becoming more accepted in professional environments. A Forbes article highlights how perceptions are shifting, especially as Millennials step into leadership roles. According to a Pew Research poll, about 23% of Americans sport at least one tattoo, and 32% of those aged 30 to 45 have one or more.
As for my kids, some might wonder what messages my ink sends. Am I setting a precedent for them to follow suit? Perhaps. But I want them to see that the essence of a person isn’t defined by their appearance, whether it’s skin color, piercings, or tattoos. My ink symbolizes that being a loving mom transcends any societal norms regarding appearance.
If my kids ever decide to get tattoos (when they’re of age, naturally), I won’t discourage them. Instead, I’ll guide them to ponder their choices carefully, thinking about the permanence and the meaning behind their decisions. I’ll remind them that external appearances are far less significant than inner qualities and that my love for them is unconditional. And of course, I’ll ask, “Can I join you for the adventure?”
This article was originally published on November 30, 2016.
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Summary
Tattoos can be a source of joy and self-expression without the burden of regret. The author shares her experiences with her own ink and how they represent lasting values in a changing world. She encourages open conversations with her children about the permanence of tattoos, emphasizing that love and character are what truly count.