Emancipation

June 2006 I got married. My husband was abusive mentally and physically. By the grace of God I had the courage and strength to leave him. Unfortunately I left with mental and physical scars. I recently got more body art. It represents my life then and now. It is a reminder of how courageous I am and how present God is in my life. My art is posted in three parts. For a while I used this quote by Corita Kent that stated "Flowers grow out of darker moments." It helped me get through the rough times when I first left my husband. Then I decided to do some color research and look for flowers that grew in the dark/shade. I came upon the lotus. Beautiful flower, grows in the mud. I am now the flower that grew out of a dark moment. I grew closer to God which has made me a much better person. The colors in my art represent domestic violence awareness (purple), courage (red), emotional growth and protection (green), and tranquility (blue). My art was done by an artist named Chris at Twisted Needle Tatoo in Hsv. He kicks ass!!!! This tatoo shows where I was, the pain I endured in my marriage, and the place I am now, and where I am going. This is so meaningful to me. This is something I used to keep to myself. I feel this is as good a time as any to open up about an issue that is often swept under the rug. This is no longer taboo. Please respond let me know what you think about my body art. It means a lot to me. My divorce was final March 7, 2007. Never settle for less than what you deserve. I know I never will again.