by Gayle Jackson

Created on: July 10, 2009   Last Updated: February 21, 2010

Tattooing, once reserved for the sailor, circus attraction or those marked for life or death, has now become a fashion statement. Our family's tattoo artist explained it as a new way to leave a legacy.

Body art has a history. Choosing a meaningful tattoo will be historical. It will be on the body forever sans having it removed.

The professional told us of bodies discovered in Europe with tattoos still visible through the layers of skin. They leave a message. Jokingly thoughts arose of a nursing home with the residents sporting body piercing and tattoos!

Tattooing tells a story. In our family my husband was the first to get inked. He decided to choose a symbol of our faith, the Christian Ichtus which is a fish.

Many tattoo parlors were visited in this quest, as was the Internet for designs. Because it is a permanent marking, a wise thought out decision is important. Body placement is also a consideration.

This tattoo then became a family tradition or crest so to say. When my daughter reached 18, which is when we have decided is of age, she was ready for her ink. She asked me to join her in the venture.

"Come on Mom, you can do it" has became one of our most memorable experiences. The artist was so knowledgeable and made us feel comfortable with our design choice and the procedure.

He told of other families that were doing the same thing. It is family bonding at its best. This choice was easy. It was meaningful because of our faith and sharing our family legacy.

With tattooing the field is wide open. Each tattoo artist has a portfolio of his or her work. They can draw just about anything. Even the hint of an idea can blossom into a tattoo as in my husband's third inking.

He wanted a cross of some sort, with nails. The artist suggested adding blood droplets. This touch made the tattoo pop and of course unique. Almost any thing can become body art.

Television Ink shows are great for ideas. So is the net with a host of websites to peruse for tattoos and spots for display. Some sites will allow downloads for a fee.

Parlors are conducive to hanging out and have a comfortable area to wait and view, since tattooing often takes hours. The artists' work is often on display.

It is true about once you've been inked you want another. Having a theme for your meaningful tattoos can help. Tell your story with body art and leave a permanent legacy.

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