I’m turning 40 in April. And I want to get a tattoo.

I already have one, but I got it when I was 19. Its a gecko. His name is Murray.

I still love it, but its something a 19 year old Natalie would choose. . I finally found something that felt right. That fits who I am today. I think it’s an ideal symbol to guide me into the second half of my life, and the perfect gift to myself for my 40th birthday.

Its known as the Enso. And this single brushstroke speaks volumes about the universe… life… purpose…self image…the list is endless. As I learned more about this mis-shaped circle, it wrapped up so many of my personal philosophies that I couldn’t believe I’d never encountered this image before. I’ve been so inspired by it that I share the ideas with anyone who will listen! And I can’t wait to share the message when people ask me ‘What does your tattoo mean!?’

The Acceptance of Imperfection as Perfect

Isn’t that one huge!! I’m not sure there are many people in this world who have achieved this ideal. But it is certainly one that most of us are working on. And I love the idea of having that reminder with me all the time.

The Connectedness of All Existence

This idea is something I think everyone can benefit from. Feeling connected to someone or something engenders a feeling of Compassion. Understanding. When you accept that your actions are only the beginning, and that the effects of your decisions ultimately impact the earth, the animals, and fellow human-beings, you are more motivated to be mindful of how you are helping or harming.

The Beginning and End of All Things

I don’t need to get too deep on this one. I think it speaks for itself. If not, I have three words for you… The Lion King.

The Spirit of Harmonious Cooperation

All we need is Love….What the world needs now…I could go on and on. This is actually a concept that most people do embrace. Regardless of their opinions on other topics, when humans are put under great stress you will see this ‘spirit of harmonious cooperation’ spring up. Its a beautiful a quality, but often only brought out in dire need. I think we all could do with a little reminding to keep that element alive in our lives.

Personal Development and the Refinement of Character

I think this is especially poignant to me as I enter my 4th decade. There is no disputing that time is the greatest teacher. And I’ve had opportunities for success and failures in my life which have led to the person I am today. We are all a work in progress, and slowly but surely I have been refining what I want in and for my life. I know what I don’t want to be and why, and I know what things are most important to me.

When I was 20 I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life, or what was ahead of me. And that was cool. I was game. But at nearly 40, I’ve already had one career and my children are now in elementary school and I can see that my scope has narrowed. For the most part I have defined my goals and live a life according to my beliefs. That’s not so say I have it all mapped out, I don’t, but I know which direction I’m heading in.

Its really cool to look at the Enso and hold up each concept against it. The symbol seems to reflect the exact thought. As you can see the imagery lends itself to so many concepts. I’m sure you’ve even been able to see different ones yourself. Inevitably certain messages resonate more strongly with each individual.

I truly believe that as a human you need to constantly fill your life with positive influences to keep the negative ones at bay. Being human means that you slip up sometimes, but we also have an incredible ability to re-commit and do amazing things. Sometimes we just need a reminder of that. As an almost 40 year old woman, I can say… I think I am going to like seeing that circle everyday.