It used to be a rogue,rad, and ruff (bikers)thing...NOW it's to commemorate special people that touched your life, a meaningful phrase or a motto that has a reflective quality OR an animal that is your spirit guide. (I was going to get a moose,stylized small tattoo.....but found out my aging skin is too thin and the image would not be sharp)......50/50 chance of blurring, so I opted out. I was 78 when I found this out....BUMMED....the aborigines have such magnificent symbols and swirls from head to toe..... met someone in Seattle Fishmarket (many moons ago) that had those "inked" on his entire body that was visible. VERY unique