I got my first tattoo when I turned 18, accompanied by my best friend at a popular tattoo shop in town. She opted for a vibrant blue star on her foot, while I chose a 6-inch angel for my back.
As I walked out of the parlor, my skin pulsing under the protective plastic covering my fresh ink, I felt a rush of excitement and confidence. Sure, I pondered briefly about my mom’s reaction, but it hardly dampened my spirits. I was sure about my choice to permanently mark my skin with colorful ink, and thoughts of future regret didn’t even cross my mind. I didn’t wonder how I’d explain that tattoo to my kids down the road, nor did I care what my 40-year-old self might think—my 18-year-old self was reveling in the moment.
I’ve heard stories from others who regret their tattoos. Some lament the ink they’ve forever embedded in their skin, while others wish they had chosen different designs. I sympathize with them—I know regret all too well. But when it comes to my tattoos? Absolutely no regrets here.
Honestly, it surprises me that I don’t regret that first tattoo. I’ve had my fair share of impulsive decisions that I’ve later wished I could take back. At that young age, the design I chose isn’t one I would pick now, and it has faded over the past two decades. Plus, let’s not ignore the minor detail that the angel’s foot resembles, well, something rather humorous. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it.
Despite the many reasons I could regret that large angel with a questionable foot, I don’t. I may have my share of regrets, but that tattoo isn’t one of them. In fact, not only do I stand by that tattoo, but I’ve added several more in recent years, and I don’t regret any of those either. While I might not adore all of my tattoos equally and wish some were different, regret doesn’t factor into the equation.
People often exclaim, “But they’re permanent!” And that’s true. Yet, maybe that’s part of their appeal. In a world that’s ever-evolving and uncertain, my tattoos serve as a reminder that some things last. They also add a touch of humor to my life, showing that I don’t take myself too seriously. After all, what’s on the outside pales in comparison to what truly matters on the inside.
Some worry that tattoos could impact my kids’ futures, making it more difficult for them to find jobs. However, as outdated stereotypes fade and workplaces become more progressive, tattoos are increasingly accepted in professional settings. According to a survey by Pew Research, 23% of Americans sport at least one tattoo, and among those aged 30 to 45, that number jumps to 32%.
People sometimes ask if my tattoos might influence my kids to get inked at a young age. Perhaps they will, but so what? I want them to understand that external appearances—whether it’s skin color, hair style, or tattoos—don’t define a person’s worth. My tattoos are a testament to the idea that being a loving mom isn’t about conforming to a certain image but about nurturing your children in your unique way.
If my kids decide they want tattoos someday (when they’re old enough, of course), I won’t discourage them. Instead, I’ll encourage them to think carefully about their decision and what they want to permanently ink on their bodies. I’ll remind them about the permanence and emphasize that what truly counts lies within. Most importantly, I’ll assure them of my unconditional love, no matter what they choose. And then, I might just ask, “Can I join you?”
This article was originally published on November 30, 2016.
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Summary
In this light-hearted piece, Jenna reflects on her tattoo journey starting from her first ink at 18. Despite the common regrets that others express about their body art, she embraces her tattoos as lasting symbols of self-expression and humor. She encourages openness with her children about the permanence of tattoos and reassures them that their worth is determined by their character, not their appearance.