“Our bodies were printed as blank pages to be filled with the ink of our hearts.” ~ Michael Biondi
This month, I did something. It’s been in the works for a while. And it means so, so much to me.
Last week, I took a little road trip down to Omaha and got a new tattoo.
But this wasn’t just any tattoo.
This one has an incredible amount of meaning and thought behind it. It was born out of a rough year – er, years.
"My body is my Journal, and my tattoos are my story."~Jonny Depp
I asked my copywriter to help me write up the meaning behind this new bit of color in my life to share the story with all of you. So in their research they found out that people get tattoos:
For their connection to the design personally. Lots of people get tattoos that symbolize something more profound in their own lives.
As an extension of themselves, who they are, what they’ve been through.
To tick off their parents.
In my 40s now, I giggled over the fact that even adults note that they may be getting tattoos to tick off their parents. This was not even on my list of reasons why!
I was drawn to the symbolism and the story behind the lion. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but I’m pretty big into symbolism over here. Have you read how passionately I feel about seeds of faith?
So why DID I choose my new design - My Lion?
The Symbolism Behind the Lion
Lions can signify many things, but the most common are:
Strength
Protection
Courage
Leadership
In addition, the lion’s spirit encourages one to speak the truth. As the wise saying goes, “Speak out, even if your voice shakes.” If you are faced with a situation and crushed by self-doubt, remember to summon your inner lion or lioness.
Much the same as the wolf and the bear power animals, the lion protects those it holds dear. For example, if someone you love is being mistreated in any way, summon the full power of your inner lion to defend them. In some cases, the person needing protection may even be you!
The Lion From The Bible
In God’s Word, lions are symbols of courage and power. These are necessary things for Christians to have in their arsenal.
In addition, Christians believe in taking care of each other and helping each other, just like the lion.
Lions Take the Lead
If a lion has made itself known to you, it can signify that you need to step up and take the lead. Following can be easier than leading. But, the noble lion should inspire you to LEAD.
Stand proudly and lead from the front, just as the most remarkable leaders throughout history have done.
Lions Signify Pride
The pride of the lion prompts you to be proud of who you are, where you came from, and what you know. Every challenge, every blessing, every battle scar, and every celebration can be used to propel yourself to something greater.
Lions Signify Loyalty & Family
If the lion is your spirit animal, your innate nature is to hold your extended family (whether they are blood family or chosen family) close to you. They are cherished, and you would go to great lengths to help and protect them.
Lions Are Affectionate
While lions can weigh over 400 pounds, they are still just big kitty cats at heart. Lions are every bit as cuddly and affectionate as your pet cats (which if you follow me at all, you know how much I LOVE cats).
The lion’s spirit reminds you that even though the world requires fierceness, you shouldn’t ever forget to be affectionate and cuddly with those you love.
Lions Take the Lead
In God’s Word, lions are symbols of courage and power. These are necessary things for Christians to have in their arsenal.
In addition, Christians believe in taking care of each other and helping each other, just like the lion.
The Female Lion May Even Be Better (But The Two Of Us With Our Combined Six Daughters May Be Biased!)
A lioness tattoo, in general, encompasses much of the same meaning as a male lion.
A lioness can be an equally powerful symbol of strength, protection, and loyalty.
A lioness tattoo’s meaning revolves around notions of feminine strength and courage, as well as motherhood.
What "The Lion" Means to Me
"If people are honest with themselves when they choose a tattoo, the art will represent them better than anything that will ever come out of their mouth. The things that are most important to me are represented in the art that covers my body. My God, my family, my friends, my job, my social and historical beliefs and the aggressive or even violent nature with which I will protect all of them.....basically in that order of importance." Troy Holloway
This lion design, to me, signifies strength and courage. Having gone through my recent divorce, I am stronger, have more courage, and have rebuilt my confidence as a single mom – and as a person, in general.
I’ve learned I can stand on my own two feet (with God, of course).
"The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." Proverbs 28:1 NIV
I’ve learned to stand my ground, enforce my boundaries, and stay true to my convictions.
I’ve learned to be proud of who I am.
I’ve learned to showcase my lion attitude.
I'd love to hear from you!
What new project are you taking on right now that we can help you conquer like lions?
What steps are you taking in faith?