So, my sister and I got new tattoos on Saturday... And it seems like this ink is already under more scrutiny than my two other pieces. Of course, I know putting it on my wrist doesn't help with that. The one problem I have with people's reactions is the whole thing about "are you still going to like that or want that when your old?" It's not like I am a fifteen year old that did this just to rebel against my parents. And I also didn't do it just because it's something "my generation" does, like it's a trend I got sucked into. I've never taken the idea of getting inked lightly. And each piece means something even more than the last, or I wouldn't pay someone to come at me with a needle. And, lastly I'm not going to "grow out of" them or have no use for them as I age.
Here's why - Each tattoo is to remind me of something. The first is a little blue cross on my shoulder, I got it just before I graduated high school. It reminds me that though I respect my parents and their beliefs and opinions, I am my own person and I have to make my own decision to trust in the Good News of salvation. It also reminds of my connection to my sister, as she got the same one that same night. My next piece is the phoenix in flight that I added to my blue cross. This image reminds me of how I was formed from dust and to dust I will return. It also reminds me that I long to be a creature consumed by fire, ablaze with the glory of my creator! Finally, it's a reminder that I am a product of rebirth, that I have eternal life because I am reborn through Christ. And, like Christ, I must die to my own will before this can happen. That message will certainly never get old! Now this new ink is a representation of my relationship with my Gramma 'Nette. It's a heart, because she used to always say "Bless your heart," with a footprint inside, because she called me Sugarfoot. This tattoo will always remind me not only of my Gramma and the love we shared, but also the amazing woman of God she was and she longed for me to be. I hope that with each person I meet, no matter how obnoxious, I can wish them blessings and care for their heart, not just what they can do for me. And I never want to loose her image of me - "so sweet you drip sugar from your nose and your toes." It may sound diminutive or childish, but innocence is something I will always strive for, something I will always need God's power and grace to maintain.
So you see, maybe you don't like tattoos or you don't understand why anyone would pay to go through that pain, but I truly feel these messages, these reminders are that valuable, that important. And the pain is minimal and temporary, while the truth of these lessons is eternal. And, I'm getting down from my "soapbox" now...
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