“You’ll regret those for life!” my mother exclaimed, shaking her head in disbelief as she walked away. This was her reaction after I excitedly unveiled my first tattoo upon returning from a solo trip around Europe at the age of 22. A vibrant butterfly in shades of orange, yellow, and red sat proudly on my sun-kissed right shoulder.
“What will you do when you have a real job?” she shouted from the kitchen.
“I’m never going to have a ‘real’ job!” I shot back, tossing my hefty backpack to the floor and kicking off my Birkenstocks.
As it turned out, my mother wasn’t entirely correct. Sure, I went on to become a lawyer, but that cheerful little swallowtail never interfered with my work. For me, that butterfly symbolizes an unforgettable chapter of my life—a reminder of the adventurous, free-spirited gypsy who roamed from one European city to another, making spontaneous stops as her instincts guided her.
During those months, I felt like I was discovering myself anew. I could go days without speaking to a soul, or I might strike up a conversation with a new friend on a bustling street after learning a few words in their language. Most importantly, I became my own best friend. I cherished those moments as I ascended the Belfry in Bruges, savored shellfish in Bergen, and inhaled the sweet fragrance of tulips in Amsterdam—where I got my butterfly tattoo while sober (well, for that particular hour, anyway).
I treasure those days of solo backpacking at 22. That version of myself is one I wish to keep alive, and I do so through a small winged creature on my shoulder. Though a bit faded now, she remains vibrant, and I greet her every morning as I dry off after my shower.
“Good morning, adventurous self,” I whisper to my now 44-year-old self. “Let’s make the most of today, shall we?” I’ve never once regretted that tattoo.
My second tattoo came just a week before I married at 30. My husband, Jake, and I decided to get matching tattoos as wedding gifts to each other. (“Haven’t you heard of the jewelry tradition, Devin?” my mother reminded me.) Our wedding took place two months after 9/11, a time filled with emotion, and we reflected that in our tattoo choices. I opted for another butterfly, this time adorned with stars and stripes. It now resides on my left hip (and yes, it stung!).
Warnings about getting tattoos to symbolize relationships abound, given their permanence compared to the often-temporary nature of partnerships. Sadly, after a decade, my marriage ended in divorce. Yet, I can honestly say I’ve never felt regret over that tattoo. I look at it without sorrow or remorse. While the divorce was more painful than the tattoo itself, it was amicable, and Jake and I maintain a good relationship as co-parents to our amazing 9-year-old son. We communicate regularly, support each other in our new lives, and I have immense respect for him. I don’t regret marrying Jake, nor do I lament having a tattoo that reflects our time together. Though our marriage may not have lasted, the beautiful moments we shared, like our son and friendship, remain precious to me.
This second tattoo also serves as a reminder of the unity and resilience our nation displayed during that challenging time. The pride I felt to be American during the aftermath of 9/11 is something I want to hold onto. Interestingly, my first tattoo celebrates my identity while traveling abroad, and my second reflects my pride in my home country. Now, at 44—twice the age I was when I got my first tattoo—I’m delighted to say both tattoos are still vibrant and wrinkle-free.
Many people (hi, Mom) shy away from tattoos due to their permanence. But that’s precisely why I cherish mine. In a world where so much is fleeting, it’s comforting to know my butterflies are always with me. I may not know where the photo albums from my travels or my wedding have ended up, nor can I predict when I’ll return to Europe or marry again. But rest assured, my butterflies will never flutter away.
If you’re curious about home insemination methods, you can check out one of our other blog posts here. For those looking for reliable resources, Healthline offers excellent insights into pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re interested in at-home options, the Fertility Boost is a great starting point.
In summary, my tattoos are cherished symbols of personal growth and resilience, each carrying memories that I hold dear. They serve as constant reminders of who I was, and who I continue to be.
Keyphrase: The significance of tattoos in personal identity
Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]