When you look at yourself in the mirror, whom do you see? Aside from your outward self, what are those other elements that make up your character? Are they religious beliefs, nationality, or even your favorite book series?
Of course, these are all things that people would not notice at first glance. It would take time and conversation to unveil the different components of your character — your likes and dislikes and the beliefs you hold.
Tattoos are one way many choose to represent those things. Generally seen as a form of expression, tattoos are visual representations that allow the world to gain immediate insight or judgment upon a person.
Before I turned the big one-eight, I stubbornly repeated how I’d get a tattoo after my 18th birthday. Almost seven months later, I remain un-inked.
It’s not because of an overwhelming fear of needles (although the sticking pain has never sounded too appealing to me), but it’s an issue of validation.
I’ve always wanted to get the symbols of the Filipino flag to display my pride or perhaps an ode to Momma Monster herself, Lady Gaga, with an identical peace tattoo on my wrist. For years, I’ve pondered different ideas of what to get and where. But suddenly it hit me: What am I trying to validate?
Despite the evolving we endure — especially in this environment we call college — I’d like to think I have somewhat of a handle of who I am. With that being said, I’ve started to think about one thing. What am I trying to prove to others by getting tatted?
I realize many of people’s tattoos are truly meaningful. That’s not my issue. I can find much significance in things about myself or things that have contributed to who I am, but is any of it that vital that I need to put it on my skin for it to exist forever?
At the same time, I do find beauty in tattoos as a form of expression and art when tastefully done. There’s something appealing about them. One thing that jaded my view of tattoos is how trendy inking yourself is. It seems that they’re becoming more and more pointless and simply for show or cool points.
According to Paul Taylor, the executive vice president of the Pew Research Center, 38 percent of “Milennials,” the teenagers and 20-somethings of America, have at least one tattoo. Fifty percent of those Milennials have at least five. He refers to them as a “generational badge,” much like the hippie hair of the 60’s.
I guess when it comes down to it I’m conflicted. Everyone has their own personal reasons for getting a tattoo, and I’m not sure that I’m ready to scar my body forever just yet. This is one trend I don’t think I’ll be following any time soon. Maybe I’ll reconsider once I hit the big two-one …
Send your tat ideas to Ashley at alhaines@asu.edu
