The word ‘Unbreakable’ is tattooed across the inside of, junior biology major, Aleisha Stiltner’s left wrist. One of five tattoos, it holds a great deal of meaning to her because her mother had a matching one. She explained that her mother had always been by her side, no matter what, and added, “everything good about me comes from her.” Stiltner arrived at Blackburn College in 2014 and it was around that time that her mother was diagnosed with cancer. Shortly after her mother’s diagnosis, Stiltner began to think about getting matching tattoos, and wanted something symbolic of their relationship. Stiltner remembered when she called her mother with the idea and said, “Unbreakable. That’s us…that’s our bond.” She explained how the tattoo represents her mother’s spirit and optimism, and said that her mother remained “as positive as ever”, despite her diagnosis. Not long after they got their tattoos, her mother passed away. She remembers her mother as the person who influenced her the most, and ‘Unbreakable’ serves as a reminder of her mother’s strength and gives Stiltner strength today.
The lion has long been revered as a majestic creature, a symbol of royalty and power. As a totem animal, the lion represents courage, strength and the will to overcome. Which is exactly why sophomore psychology major, Angela Andrews, has one tattooed on her right shoulder. One of seven tattoos, all of which were done at a shop in Arizona, Andrews wanted it to be her spirit animal, to symbolize her personality and strengths. She described herself as being motivated, driven to do her best and stated that, “I am a leader in almost everything I do.” Andrews explained that the lion is the most meaningful tattoo she has, because it embodies who she is and symbolizes her will to lead, succeed and excel.