I think tattoos can be a wonderful form of expression. I have three. One is just a silly ankle flower bracelet thing I got in my early 20's. The other two have more meaning. One is simply "Carpe Noctem" - latin for Seize the Night, and I was always a night person.

The last tatt I got three years ago was "The Scream" by Edvard Munch (I recently found out he was thought to be Bipolar). It's on my left forearm (like a sleeve). Lots of interpretations: "The imagery of The Scream has been compared to that which an individual suffering from depersonalization disorder experiences, a feeling of distortion of the environment and one's self".

For me it covers up scars on my arm, reminds me not to drink & is also in memory of the person I was closest to in the world. (Died of this Disorder, a little over a year ago). The owner of the parlor/tattoo artist died also. He was a friend of mine, so I would never regret this tattoo. It's art filled with emotion.

Tattoos are more socially accepted. I was a very successful office manager, and I can always wear light sweaters to cover it up.



To add a side note: My son will be 18 in less than a month. He has been begging me for a tattoo for 2 years. I said I would not give him permission. It's his body - his choice and if he wants one - he is the one who has to consent.