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I originally decided to get a tattoo so my mother could identify my body should something happen. That is a joke, but identification does serve as one purpose. Tattoos are an individual choice therefore it gives them individual purpose. I wanted a tattoo to beautify my body and express my uniqueness. Most women got roses, dolphins, broken hearts and lover's names, however I decided to research what I really wanted.

With Chinese symbols in mind, I went to the library to research the symbols and their meaning. I had an idea of what I wanted and copied one symbol for future possibilities. It was my late 20s before I received my first one, in the most cliched place around- Las Vegas. I followed up with two more the following year. My three small tattoos are on my left lower stomach going down reading, "To Desire 4 Eternity." The "To Desire" and "Eternity" are Chinese symbols.

For the most part, tattoos are one method of self-expression, or to honor a loved one. Tattoos carry the burden of keeping the memory of the deceased alive. The endless colors and designs allow a person to convey their creativity and feelings.

Unlike other art forms, tattoos please the creator instead of the public, which is their purpose. It isn't about selling art, but letting the individual use their body as a canvas for their own enjoyment. Pictures are carefully chosen and symbolic scenes played out on different parts of the body that might represent a time of mourning, happiness, or remembrance. The tattoos etching outlines our emotions as the colors fill in their significance.

Some people get tattoos at particular times in their lives without putting thought into what and why they want them. The purpose comes from wanting to fit in, which sometimes leads to regret. Then there are those wanting to make the moment significant. Armed forces get tattoos as a reminder of the times, or where they served. Anchors for the Navy, the name of their division, the American flag, or Uncle Sam are examples that signify their devotion to their country.

Another purpose for tattoos is to illustrate religious belief such as crosses, angels, rosaries and the face of Jesus. A few of the most popular kind of religious tattoos are Christian and Celtic armbands. There are many variations, such as flowers, thorns, or barbed wire, and they are usually the first tattoo of the individual.

But the main purpose for tattoos is the fact that we have the freedom to get them. They are our bodies, our canvas, so let the ink pour and dry for no other reason than to create art.

Learn more about this author, Bea Sempere.
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