“People that ask me about my tattoos almost always ask, ‘Did it hurt?!’ and then they follow up with questions about why I got them, and especially why I did at such a young age. To answer the question everyone asks, yes it does hurt. Being tattooed feels like burning and stinging all in one. I’ve known I wanted tattoos for years, and there has never been any doubt in my mind that I’m a ‘tattoo person.’ My first tattoo, the one pictured, wasn’t one I had thought about for years. However, I knew I wanted it because I got it with my mother. Most people see it just as a Harry Potter tattoo, but it’s more than that. Beyond being a tattoo that will forever remind me of my mother, the text ‘all is well’ reminds me that no matter what happens in my life, everything will be alright. I will always have my family and that is all I need. On my left side there is the outline of a tattoo that is still a work-in-progress. It’s an elephant, and this is a tattoo I’ve wanted for a few years. Elephants have always been one of my favorite animals. Besides just being beautiful creatures, they hold so much meaning and respect. This tattoo is a symbol of my own inner strength and another reminder that I am stronger than I may think at times. Also, elephants are very family oriented and this is another reason as to why I decided to get it. Strength and my family are major parts of my life. I show who I am through the artwork I decide to have tattooed on me.”