The Inked Perspective

For thousands of years, we as a species have been decorating our skin with various designs. Some are representative of a milestone, commemorating the loss of a friend; some are even trophies we display after war.

For many, tattoos are also reminders of where they were spiritually, physically, and mentally. When asked what she remembered about her tattoos, Darrien Gardner tends to remember her age at each tattoo. “For this one I was eighteen and went to get it with my mom,” she says motioning at the tattoo on her foot that reads just breathe. The proud owner of several tattoos ranging from script work to a collection of American Traditional Harry Potter tattoos, Darrien is quick to point out her favorite (and most recent): the golden snitch. “It just gives me so much confidence, you know? I didn’t have that confidence when I was younger, so this is representative of that.”

As with any journey, though, there are mistakes made along the way. Hasty choices are made, questionable decisions that are later regretted are now permanent markings. However, even though the permanence of tattoos can indeed last forever (looking at you, Otzi the Iceman), designs can be changed. For example, a “blast-over” tattoo is a coverup technique rising in popularity that puts a new tattoo over old ones, but allows for the old one to still be seen.

For this author, the journey is still ongoing. The roads that are traveled take commitment, both to the path and decisions made along the way. A 2023 study by the Pew Research Center shows that 32% of American adults have a tattoo, with 22% having more than one. The conclusion can be reasonably drawn that after getting one, more will follow. While it started with MOM tattooed on his wrist, the author has gone on to receive many more tattoos.

At the end of the day, the journey is ours and ours alone to travel. No matter the choice, decisions made, or which path to inevitably take; it’s all on you. It’s a beautiful thing.