Tattoo reflection

Hey Readers,

I recently discussed my intention to get a tattoo of a shackle with a broken chain....and here it is!

I had my appointment yesterday afternoon, and so far so good! It took about an hour and a half, and I had to bend and twist a lot so Jamie (the tattoo artist) had it in the right position. It was done at living colour tattoo in Ottawa by Jamie (plug: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tattoos-by-Jamie/122959891072453?ref=ts) she was lovely!

The question I'm so often asked is "did it hurt". My answer? ish. She actually started the tattoo by doing the chain that lies on the boney part of the ankle, which is the most sensitive. It did hurt, but it was short lived, and definitely wasn't unbearable. After she finished the chain she said "if you can get through that part the rest will be easy" and it was.

The big question- why a shackle? I think many people who know me or have read this blog can take a guess. The shackle represents everything that has held me captive and kept me from enjoying life. This includes depression, cutting,the eating disorder, guilt, shame, worthlessness, hopelessness, never feeling good enough.....there are so many things that hold me back

So I carry all of this with me and show it to the world.

but the chain is broken

I don't have to let all of this keep me imprisoned. I have the power escape. It can no longer stop me - I am free.

It's not your typical "recovery" tattoo. Many people choose butterflies, flowers, birds or a phoenix to represent the beauty and freedom that comes with recovery, and that's awesome. However, I want to show my experiences as they are: dark, strong, big and even a bit ugly. It is that ugliness that makes being free of it so beautiful.

Ok, this is probably getting a bit wishy washy, so I will bid you fair well. Have a lovely weekend!

Peace, Love and Veggies,

Alex