I now see my scars as signs of strength from surviving my past. But I used to be ashamed of my scars. I would always keep them hidden/covered. I am especially careful around children because I know they are very inquisitive and blunt. I also make sure to hide my scars from people I know won't understand or will make them uneasy. But otherwise I don't hide them.

But I have realized something peculiar...most people have no clue what my scars are!!! I recently decided I want tattoos over my scars (for many reasons, but not to hide them). I have fresh scars on one arm, so I have to wait. I went to the pharmacist, showed her my scars, and asked her how I can make them heal faster. She had no clue it was from SI!?!? She actually asked me how I got them, and when I explained she looked confused.

Then some friends came over to my house and saw the one tattoo I did get. They asked me why I did it. I pointed out my scars (which were not hidden), and they asked what the scars were from!

It just surprising how little some people notice or understand!