Here’s the deal. I didn’t just walk into a tattoo parlor on a whim. This tattoo means business. It’s not just ink; it’s a manifesto etched into my skin. It captures three powerful concepts: my zodiac sign Aquarius, the transformative philosophy of "Be like water," and the reflective mantra "This is water." I’m not one for astrology, but damn, if the traits of Aquarius don’t hit home. So let’s dive into why these three elements are like the holy trinity of my life’s philosophy.
1. The Aquarius Symbol:
Astrological Significance:
Let’s get one thing straight—I’m not living my life by horoscopes. But I can’t deny that Aquarius traits like innovation, humanitarianism, and independence are eerily on point for me. The Aquarius symbol is like a badge of honor for those who are forward-thinking and fiercely independent.
Personal Connection:
Born under the sign of Aquarius, it’s almost spooky how much these traits align with who I am. I’m all about pushing boundaries in IT and photography, marching to my own beat, and making a positive impact in any way I can. This sign represents my relentless pursuit of new ideas and my drive to carve out a unique path in the world.
Resonating Traits:
- Innovation: My career in IT and my passion for photography thrive on fresh, groundbreaking ideas. If there’s a new way to do something, you bet I’m on it. I’m always looking for the next big thing, the next innovation that will set me apart.
- Independence: Freelancing isn’t for the faint-hearted. It’s a constant hustle, but it’s my hustle. I value the freedom to carve my own path. It’s about being your own boss, setting your own rules, and building something that’s truly yours.
- Humanitarianism: Whether through my work or my personal life, I aim to leave the world a bit better than I found it. It’s about creating value and giving back. I believe in the power of community and the importance of contributing to the greater good.
2. "Be Like Water":
Philosophical Roots:
Bruce Lee’s quote, "Be water, my friend," is my life’s mantra. It’s about being adaptable, flexible, and resilient. It’s about flowing with the punches and morphing to fit the situation. This philosophy is not just a cool saying—it’s a way of life. Bruce Lee taught that water can take any shape, adapt to any situation, and remain calm yet powerful.
Practical Application:
This isn’t just a cool saying—it’s a way of life. I embody this philosophy daily. When life throws me curveballs, I don’t stiffen up; I flow around them. I’m patient and persistent, but when it’s go-time, I can be a force to be reckoned with.
- Example: In photography, conditions change on a dime, but I adapt to capture the perfect shot. In IT, problems pop up left and right, and I tackle them with a flexible mindset, finding solutions that others might miss. And in life, I don’t let obstacles stop me; I navigate around them and find a way to succeed. My adaptability is my superpower, allowing me to thrive in ever-changing environments.
3. "This Is Water":
David Foster Wallace's Speech:
David Foster Wallace’s "This is water" speech is a game-changer. It’s a wake-up call to stay mindful and aware of the world’s subtle truths. It’s about recognizing the water we swim in every day. This speech reminds us that the most obvious, important realities are often the hardest to see and talk about. It’s about maintaining awareness and consciousness in a world that often feels autopilot.
Everyday Mindfulness:
I make it a point to reflect on and question the everyday, seemingly trivial aspects of life. This habit keeps me grounded and in tune with my surroundings and actions.
- Example: During my walks, I don’t just zone out. I soak in the details—the rustle of leaves, the patterns of light. This mindfulness fuels my appreciation for life and sharpens my eye for photography, helping me capture the extraordinary in the ordinary. By staying present and aware, I find beauty and meaning in the smallest moments, enriching my life and work.
Final Thoughts
This tattoo is more than just a piece of art—it’s a manifesto inked on my skin. It’s a constant reminder of the values and philosophies that drive me. Aquarius symbolizes my core traits: innovation, independence, and humanitarianism. "Be like water" speaks to my adaptability and resilience. "This is water" keeps me grounded in mindfulness and reflection. Together, these elements shape my journey and aspirations.
Now, I want to hear from you! Got any tattoos that tell your story? How do they resonate with your personal philosophy? Drop your stories in the comments below. And if these themes struck a chord with you, dive deeper into astrology, Bruce Lee’s wisdom, and David Foster Wallace’s insights. Let’s spark a conversation and share our inspirations with each other. This is more than just a discussion—it’s a community of like-minded individuals sharing and growing together.
*images created in Dall-e using my own prompts.