All tattoos have some sort of connection to
the person who chose to get it. Whether it is a symbolic meaning, or just an
image they like, it is a personal choice that could mean something different to
every person with a similar image. In the case of a semicolon, the meaning has
become pretty universal and we have Amy Bluel to thank for that.
Amy Bluel showing off her semicolon tattoo.
All tattoos have some sort of connection to
the person who chose to get it. Whether it is a symbolic meaning, or just an
image they like, it is a personal choice that could mean something different to
every person with a similar image. In the case of a semicolon, the meaning has
become pretty universal and we have Amy Bluel to thank for that.
After sadly losing her father to suicide,
Bluel wanted to do something to honor him and to help raise awareness for
mental health issues. In founding Project Semicolon she has done both. The
organization and movement are “dedicated to presenting hope and love for those
who are struggling with depression, suicide, addiction and self-injury.” They encourage
people to draw or tattoo a semicolon onto their bodies as a reminder of the
power of yourself.
The semicolon is an important piece of
punctuation and is a perfect symbol for those who are struggling. As Amy says,
“A semicolon is used when an author could’ve chosen to end their sentence, but
chose not to. The author is you and the sentence is your life.”
via Facebook / Project Semicolon
Many people have chosen to mark their body
with the semicolon as a reminder that their sentence and story is not over yet.
They are still here and they have another chance to make things better. The
idea is that despite the past struggles and hardships, you don’t have to stop
where you are. By continuing on, the sentence gets a new beginning and a new
place to end.
via Instagram / @sandifedor
Project Semicolon encourages people to share
their story with one another and to inspire each other to keep persevering
despite the difficulties. Many people choose to wear the symbol permanently as
a reminder to themselves that they are not alone and where they are at the
moment is not the end.
via Instagram / @shelleytattoodles
You can get in touch with the Semicolon Project on Facebook or through their website. They are not a 24-hotline nor are they mental health
professionals but they are a resource for support and to talk about issues. For
emergency support or professional resources contact 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or find a local resource center.
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