Last spring, I left a tattoo parlor with a ladybug etched into  my inner forearm. I collect 'signs of life:' tiny images and memories reminiscent of the beauty in the world around me. They serve as anchors when my depression is at its worst. The ladybug tattoo exists as a permanent resident of this collection. I've held onto innumerable signs of life — the feeling of waves crashing over my feet, meeting my best friend in college and eating warm pancakes at my favorite restaurant back home. Getting the ladybug as my first tattoo was another one, a moment of unadulterated joy I'll always remember.

https://www.dailycal.org/2022/08/17/signs-of-life/

#dailycal