On reading day, I made the decision to get a tattoo. Did I also study that day? I'll never tell, but what I can tell you is that I am aware that my tattoo is permanent, and I know that I will have it for the rest of my life.

But I have no regrets about getting my tattoo in any way, shape, or form. Our society is changing and becoming more accepting of body modifications and expression through different external methods, but some people are still openly opinionated to the point where it is extremely rude.

Growing up, I will always remember both of my parents having and actively getting tattoos.

They have always been open to allowing me and my siblings to get piercings and tattoos, and they even sometimes encouraged it as it allows us to express ourselves.

Their only rule before going to get a tattoo or piercing has been to take an adequate amount of time to think about it. This rule was set to make sure we were in a sound mind and we would like the modification for more than just the first month or two.

My tattoo is one that I have been thinking about for nearly five years. I got an owl tattoo on my forearm in honor of my Nana, who was like my first best friend.

The placement of my tattoo was intentional (obviously), I wanted to be able to look at it whenever I wanted to without difficulty.

Luckily, I haven't received any pushback or hate in regard to my tattoo yet, but I wouldn't be surprised if I begin to receive some in the near future.

When I hear people talking about the remarks made about their tattoos, they say people have told them they're "unprofessional," or they get reminded that the tattoos are permanent, and there are a lot of nastier comments I have heard in regard to the look and design of their tattoos.

But getting a tattoo is a personal choice, and no one has to live with it except for you.

While we are getting exponentially closer to full acceptance in today's society, there is still work to do.

We need to stop apologizing for how we choose to express ourselves and just be who we are.

Embrace who you are, and don't let anyone discourage you from that. People will always have their opinions, but you don't have to listen.