by Mandie Finley

Created on: April 28, 2008

There were three things that I was never going to do in life. Get married, have children and get a tattoo. They were just to painful in my eyes. I got married and had three beautiful children. Then recently came the tattoo. I always admired the skill of the artist and their work that people portrayed on their bodies. I didn't understand why they would choose to have something that will always be there. The pain that they go through, the fear of disease, the permanency. The looks from those who don't understand. Mothers pulling their children away from the "freaks".

Then I came to a turning point in my life. I wanted something to either wear or carry with me to be a constant reminder of all that I had accomplished, and all that I plan to accomplish. A reminder of who I am and all the things that I love. A symbol of the inner peace that I have finally accomplished. Something that would also encompass all the loved ones that I hold dear. I'm not a jewelry person and I love art. I had walked away from everything that was good in my life at one time, and needed to be reminded about second chances. Necklace? No. Bracelet? No. Wallet Sized picture? No.

A tattoo? YES. One that would carry meaning and remind me everyday that I am Blessed. I am not extremely religious, however angels represent a lot to me. So I got an angel tattooed on my leg. Don't get me wrong, it was extremely painful. I have very sensitive skin and almost cried. I debated for a long time. Did I want mothers pulling their children away? Disease, life long artwork? I don't regret my decision at all. I look at it everyday and say thank you to the angels in my life. Which are my husband, my children, my family, friends,and neighbors.

I have never met a single person with a tattoo that didn't have a reason for their piece. And in some customs piercing is beauty. What looks good to me may not look good to the next. I do however respect the individuals right to display art in any fashion. So if you see a person with piercing or tattoo's don't judge them. Ask them about the meanings behind their artwork that they so proudly display. You would be surprised at what you can learn about that person, if your willing to take the time.

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