As 2017 furthers and 2018 approaches, individuals have begun to venture beyond societal norms, and have started performing as each see fit. Societal Norms will never eliminate entirely, but maybe the judgement that comes along with the stigmas, can.
For starters, tattoos on a human being, do not need a meaning.
Tattoos on a person's body can mean so many things. It can be a daily reminder, a memorial of a loved one, or it can simply be permanent artwork. There absolutely is not anything wrong with any of the reasons. The process of getting a tattoo is a lengthy one – choosing what you want, working with a specific artist, enduring the pain and finally having the ability to admire the finished mark. Some tattoos are impulsive, and some take years to become concrete. Some could look better, and some could be in a better place.
As the stigma of 'only getting a tattoo if there is a deeper meaning behind it' continues to rise in popularity, there are also a plethora of other judgments that tattooed citizens receive. No, that person is not more likely to steal your wallet just because of the tattoos on his left arm. No that woman is not less capable of working hard, simply because of the massive permanent artwork on her forearm.
It's simply important to remember that a tattoo does not always mean that one has been through a crazy, life-changing experience, or that they have lost a close relative, dear to the heart, people express themselves differently. Hey, if there is a meaning behind that ice cream cone tattoo on your thigh, great, it's your business. If there is absolutely no reasoning behind the sick sleeve you have of black and white flowers, sweet, it's your business.
To all humans refraining from acquiring some ink due to constant questioning of the 'deeper meaning' – do it. They don't have to have meaning other than to serve as art displayed on your skin. They certainly can, but they definitely do not have to. Quit putting it off in hope that someday you'll attach a meaning to it - look at your Pinterest board, find what ever catches your eye, and quit wasting your time.