Tattoos have long served as powerful symbols, allowing individuals to express their beliefs, experiences, and aspirations on a canvas that is both personal and permanent.  In my journey of self-discovery and empowerment, I chose a tattoo that goes beyond aesthetics, encapsulating the essence of my purpose and the resilience that resides within me.  The semicolon, MPWR (the abbreviation for "empower"), and the equals sign inked on my skin tell a story that transcends mere art; they symbolize a commitment to empowerment and the pursuit of balance in my life.

To all who have spotted the ink on my wrist and wondered, "What does that tattoo mean?"  Allow me to explain.

The Semicolon:  A Story of Continuation and Resilience

At the heart of my tattoo lies the semicolon, a punctuation mark with a profound meaning.  In the world of literature, a semicolon is used when an author could have chosen to end a sentence but decided to continue.  This symbol has been adopted as a powerful metaphor for mental health awareness, representing the idea that one's story doesn't have to end when faced with challenges or struggles.

For me, the semicolon serves as a reminder of resilience and the choice to keep moving forward, even when faced with adversity.  It embodies the strength to overcome obstacles and the understanding that life is a continuous journey filled with ups and downs.

However, when you look closely at my tattoo's semicolon, you will notice that I infused the semicolon with a lightning bolt.  I've amplified the symbol's energy, emphasizing the power within me to weather life's storms and emerge stronger on the other side.  The song "Thunder" by Imagine Dragons carries a message of self-empowerment and resilience.  The chorus, featuring the line "Thunder, feel the thunder, lightning, and the thunder," captures a sense of strength, boldness, and an unstoppable force that resonates deeply with my narrative.  The lightning bolt in my tattoo serves as a reminder that lightning, like personal transformation, can be both awe-inspiring and tumultuous.  

MPWR:  The Catalyst for Empowerment

Following the semicolon in my tattoo is the abbreviation "MPWR", which stands for "empower".  This element represents my commitment to empowerment, both for myself and for those around me.  Empowerment is a force that drives positive change, fostering resilience, self-confidence, and the ability to make a difference.  Similarly, I strive to empower others, creating a ripple effect that encourages individuals to recognize their potential and take control of their narratives. 

The Equals Sign:  Embodying Principles of Equality and Inclusiveness

The equals sign in my tattoo holds a profound significance, embodying the principles of equality and inclusiveness.  In the intricate tapestry of life, finding balance is not only about personal harmony but also about fostering a sense of equality among diverse elements.  This symbol serves as a reminder that, in the pursuit of empowerment and resilience, it is essential to advocate for fairness, justice, and the inclusion of all voices.  Just as the equals sign denotes a balanced equation, it underscores the importance of creating a society where everyone is valued, heard, and empowered to thrive.  In this way, my tattoo becomes a visual pledge to champion equality, and inclusiveness, and embrace the beauty that arises from the harmonious existence of different perspectives and experiences.

In the intricate design of my tattoo - semicolon, MPWR, and equals sign - I've found a visual representation of my purpose.  It's a daily affirmation etched into my skin, a declaration of my commitment to resilience, empowerment, and balance.  This inked narrative serves as a source of strength, guiding me on my journey and inspiring others to embrace their stories, empower themselves, and strive for a harmonious and inclusive existence.