The One Where She Got a Tattoo

(yes, this is totally a friends reference. )

When I was a little girl, I never pictured having my golden skin inked with black symbols and words, nevertheless colored tattoos. I thought I was too good for that, didn't understand the fascination with inking your body. It looked dirty. It looked painful. My parents loved my disgust towards tattoos as they thought it was stupid and childish.

They still think that.

The problem is, no one holds the same ideas they had when they were young. You grow up and realize that things that looked dirty are actually beautiful pieces of art. You stop caring about your parents opinion; their worst fear.

Sorry mom and dad, but I got my second tattoo.

Austin Tattoo Blue Shop : $70

pain level 2/10

Isn't she beautiful.

She means the world to me. If I had the ability of crying I would have cried looking at this tattoo when it was done. I couldn't help but smile looking at the dainty red heart located at my upper arm... she is so tiny, you may miss her.

The heart was drawn on my notebook, I had a collection of hearts just scribbled as I was trying to perfect what I wanted. I knew from the start that she was going to be red (color of love) and that there would be lines extending from the heart.

I didn't realize that the heart I drew would be the one inked on me as I was just expecting the tattoo artist to redraw it. It's just even more special.

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I never was one to divulge the meaning of my tattoos as it feels like you are entering the darkest times of my life. The part of my life I like to keep hidden. But I guess I'll do it this one time.

The red heart simply represents "I love you," a simple statement of self-love that for y e a r s

I did not have for myself. I expected validation from others, specifically men. It was impossible too feel beautiful without anyone telling me. I never wanted too look at the mirror because I hated what I saw in the reflection.

for the longest time I never thought I would love myself so deeply. I can't believe that I love myself, it's insane because I never thought I would be able to say that after everything I've been through.

It's placed on my upper right arm, so whenever I feel like shit and my head is bowed down in defeat.... the first thing I will see is the red heart. A reminder that "i am everything." Plus in the Pledge of Allegiance, this is the hand that touches the heart.

The heart isn't closed, the lines are extending for two reasons; first one is because this world is cruel and cold, but we mustn't stop showing and giving love to people. This world needs love. We all need it. The second reason is because the love for myself is continually growing and strengthening over time.

fall in love with yourself. trust me, it's the most beautiful thing.

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self- love

regard for

one's own well-being

and happiness