Twenty-two days ago, I wrote about being slightly apprehensive about turning 35, hoping that reflecting on the things I love would guide me into a place of acceptance, joy, and confidence about my age and where I stand in life.
Each day’s reflection has helped me do just that. There are so many things to love, and I’m grateful for everything that made it to my list, as well as for the things that didn’t. I’m thankful to be 35 today.
Five years ago, for my 30th birthday, I got my first tattoo. I didn’t know back then that I would become something of a living canvas and embark on a journey with this art form, one that would make me, me.
I love my tattoos. Each one has been carefully sourced, redrawn, and lovingly placed in its exact position on my body. They don’t all have grand hidden meanings, but collectively, they contribute to something that makes me profoundly happy.
Some represent beautiful images that simply bring me joy, while others reflect my feminist outlook and my desire to celebrate the female body and all her intricacies.
At 35, I realise that loving ourselves isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about embracing the ongoing masterpiece we’re creating.
Like my tattoos, the things that make me “me” have been carefully chosen, thoughtfully placed, and lovingly integrated into who I’m becoming. Some days, I add new elements; other days, I simply appreciate what’s already there.
But every day, I’m grateful to be the artist of my own becoming.
