Tattoo Without Regrets

A special girl contacted us recently. She was half-paralyzed and wanted to have her beloved dogs' names tattooed on her arm in remembrance of her pets. Due to her circumstances, she invited us to her home to help her fulfil her wish.

After some discussion, we learnt that she was a true blue tattoo aficionado. Although we would be more than happy to help her, we insisted that she consult her doctor first - for her health’s sake.

The doctor finally replied her. Yes, she could get a tattoo. But it must be very small to prevent excessive bleeding which is a very likely complication.

For anyone with tattooing experience, we'll know that regardless of the size of a tattoo, bleeding is inevitable. Although it pained us, we rejected her dream to get a tattoo. Not only because we are concerned about her health, but also because we can't guarantee the quality of the tattoo.

Through this episode, many past memories came flooding back into our mind. Some of our past clients, many of them elderly folks, always have stories to tell when asked why they decided to get a tattoo only now.

Their replies were always the same: "I've thought about it for decades, and only finally decided to do it now. In my 20s, it was always because of the lack of money, career limitations, family prohibition, etc., so I gave up. In my 30s, it was because of my kids and career prospects. In my 40s, I believe I've outgrown the need for a tattoo. Then in my 50s-60s, with one foot in the grave, I've decided that it's my final chance to get a tattoo. Otherwise, it'll only be a dream forever."

In reality, all these are just endless excuses. Time waits for no one. I believe that since you love it, and you have the ability to get one. Then just go ahead and get your favourite tattoo right now. Unless it'll really adversely affect your life, then it'll be wise to wait till retirement or after leaving your current profession before getting one done.

In old age, you may discover that you had many unfulfilled dreams. Don't let tattoos be one of them!

I'd rather be a super cool old granny (or grandpa), than just an ordinary old folk with no interesting story to tell. Perhaps at that age, your hair might've greyed, your memories might’ve become fuzzy, your tattoos might even look wrinkly and tired, but their stories will remain as though it just happened yesterday!

Recall when you really wanted a tattoo, yet were unable to get one. Were you extremely disappointed? Then there are those who have ruined their excellent canvases due to short-sightedness in their thoughts back then. Therefore, if you don't go and nit-pick certain things, it'll repay you with endless happy memories in the future.

As I'm not a professional writer, please take this blog post as personal ramblings.

Thanks for reading!

---