My third tatt would be a word. Not just any word. One that has meaning derived from experience, the saddest experience. The honor I would feel with a brand such as this would be cathartic. I mean, the word ANYWAYS has a special place in my traumatized heart. I was forced to surrender my safety and emotional well being to those whose needs were more important than mine, ANYWAYS. I suffered in silence while smiling and pretending that my family was normal, ANYWAYS. I had so much hate for my abusers but was expected to behave kindly, ANYWAYS.
When life seems like a dirty trick, still, 24 years clawing my way up the mountain, out of the darkness, just to make a decent life ANYWAYS… I think I’ve earned the right to brand myself with this brilliance. Placed on my right, receiving hand as I will receive all life has to offer ANYWAYS.
A Fish Named Karen 