Looking Back
by Edgar A. GuestI might have been rich if I'd wanted the gold
instead of the friendships I've made.
I might have had fame if I'd sought for renown
in the hours when I purposely played.
Now I'm standing to-day on the far edge of life,
and I'm just looking backward to see
What I've done with the years and the days that were mine,
and all that has happened to me.
I haven't built much of a fortune to leave
to those who shall carry my name,
And nothing I've done shall entitle me now
to a place on the tablets of fame.
But I've loved the great sky and its spaces of blue;
I've lived with the birds and the trees;
I've turned from the splendor of silver and gold
to share in such pleasures as these.
I've given my time to the children who came;
together we've romped and we've played,
And I wouldn't exchange the glad hours spent
with them for the money that I might have made.
I chose to be known and be loved by the few,
and was deaf to the plaudits of men;
And I'd make the same choice should the chance
come to me to live my life over again.
I've lived with my friends and I've shared in their joys,
known sorrow with all of its tears;
I have harvested much from my acres of life,
though some say I've squandered my years.
For much that is fine has been mine to enjoy,
and I think I have lived to my best,
And I have no regret, as I'm nearing the end,
for the gold that I might have possessed.
Tattoos are an art form, a unique way of expressing yourself. From graphic symbols to favorite quotes to floral designs, the options are endless possibilities when it comes to tattoos. Of course, there is the classic and widely popular sleeve which is larger and often a colorful design.
However, nowadays, people are opting for something a little more inconspicuous. From celebrities to your mother, everyone is loving the tiny tattoo trend. Sure, it might be smaller, but that doesn’t mean it is any less meaningful. Looking for some tiny-tat inspiration? Check out some of the most gorgeous ones below.
Little critters
Resident artist, Bryan, is at the reputable Bang Bang studio in New York City. Bang Bang is widely popular amongst celebrities. According to their website, “Keith “Bang Bang” McCurdy has left his mark on Rihanna, Justin Bieber, and Miley Cyrus. The 29 year-old is the most famous tattoo artist in the world, or, better yet, tattoo artist to the most famous in the world. – Vogue.” The particular artist who created the piece in the picture above specialises in fine lines, realism, and illustrative colour. Other artists at Bang Bang specialize in minimalism, abstract and geometric patterns, watercolour, American Traditional, and single needle techniques.
Simple and classic
Getting a tattoo in South Korea is illegal, but that doesn’t stop Koreans from actually getting inked anyway! There are lots of tattoo artists who break the law, opened up their own studio and create some gorgeous works of art. The Korea Times explained that one can legally get a tattoo from a licensed medical professional, though most tattoo artists do not have such a credential. These artists who are operating solo are always at risk for being shut down or fined by the police. Lots of Korean tattoo artists can’t easily advertise their work, so they turn to Instagram to promote themselves. The picture above is from an Instagram account of such as shop. Due to the growing demand for tattoos, The Japan Times reported that the government might be looking into changing the law.