The Two Biggest Questions I Get About My Tattoos....

I always get the same two questions. The first is obvious: "Did it hurt?" Let me explain my opinion. When a needle is stuck beneath your skin, it hurts. But once you get started, there is no turning back. Besides, for a few bucks and a few minutes of pain, you have a work of art that will last...well, forever.

The second thing people ask me is "So...what does it mean?" I could make up a story, lying about the incredible meaning that envelops the art. Or I could tell the truth - that it is a picture that I wanted to be a part of me.

Of my five tattoos, none really mean anything. Instead, they have memories attached. For instance, my first- a traditional swallow imposed upon a hibiscus blossom - will always remind me of the nervousness of the first time, the 14 years that I had wanted one (since I was six) and the feeling of being a badass.

I don't know whether it is a need to remember that drives me to get more. I don't think that it is. But I do know that I am driven. I am almost out of hiding places. Then, we will have to face Mom again. She knows about one, and only one, and that wrecked our relationship. Someday, either she will understand me and wish she had one or I will understand her and wish I had none. I am only 18 now. Lots of time left for regret...lots of time left for more tattoos. I opt for the latter.

-Jacob

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