To ink or not to ink

I haven't really mentioned on my blog that my father passed away on July 29, 2002 - but now I am going to. I was daddy's little girl and I have not always handled his absence well. In memory of my dad, I want to get a tattoo. This is, in no way, an impulsive decision. I've considered what I wanted to get for a good 3 or 4 years now and I think the timing is right. I have a tattoo artist who has tattoo'ed some people I know and whose judgement I trust. I've talked to her about what I want. I almost went through with it back in November last year, but a few days before I was going to get it done, I came under the weather and got really sick. So I postponed it. Now I'm getting ready to graduate in about 5-6 weeks and I want to have this thing that will make me feel like my dad is with me for this special event. 

Thank you, Pinterest, for delivering these lovely images to me

The dove/bird pictured here is the only image I have seen that comes darn close to what I would like to permanently etch into my skin. It is almost exactly what I have been searching for. But maybe without all the curliness at the tail. 

I've researched the religious side of things. I don't attend church regularly. In fact, I haven't been to a church service in over 8 years. But, I do consider myself religious. I pray to God and thank Him for this life I have. I don't want to do something that is religiously wrong but I've given this a great deal of thought. I have had conversations with my Mom and brother about this. We even talked once or twice about getting something that matched but I doubt the three of us could ever agree on one single image. They are supportive of my decision, which is important, but not crucial to my decision. Which it ultimately is. My grandma (Mom's mom) and aunt (Mom's sister) know that I want this and don't disagree with my decision. I've told my uncle (Dad's brother) and his family and they don't disagree either. My biggest fear for disapproval of this decision is my grandmother (Dad's mom) because she is "old school" German and stubborn. {People tell me I am just like her.} The concern my family members have expressed is the idea that once you get one, it's easy to get another, and another, and another.  And I get this point that they have made. Maybe I will get multiple tattoos. I love feathers and it would represent my Native American ancestry. I would also love something for FSU. Maybe the feather could count, or maybe I could get a tomahawk. I also love arrows. A paw print would have special meaning as well. I think tattoos can be beautiful without going overboard. I think if it means something to you and isn't just an expression of rebellion nor a drunken mistake, then it is okay. 

Ultimately, it is my body and I will do with it what I please. 

What are your thoughts on tattoos???