I turned 60 last year and I have never been anti-tattoo but I’ve never had an idea for a tattoo that I liked well enough to do it. But with the state of the world as it is and my need to remind myself of my grounding, I got my first little tattoo this week.
Testa Tosta–a name I was called often by my grandfather and my father. For as long as I can remember. Testa Tosta is Calabrese (Italian from Calabria) term for “hard head” but I checked it out and there is some depth to it. Someone who sticks to what they believe, etc. I don’t remember Testa Tosta being in any way a negative word–it was just a statement, about who I was, said with love (and maybe a bit of frustration now and then:-).
So I got a very small tattoo on my arm. It reminds me of a lot–my dad, my grandfather, my Italian immigrant roots, that I can be a person who stands up for things and stays true to them and that stubbornness can be an asset when used right. I need this reminder these days when I miss all of the family members who have died over the decade, when immigrants are being treated horribly, when there is so much to fight for.
So, here it is:-)
A(nother) Year of Reading 
I have never gotten a tattoo. They seem to be growing in popularity these days. I like the small ones like yours that mean something special. After my father in law died, my middle daughter got “Livestrong” because he had been a fan of the French bicycle race. It has served her well. Yes, stubbornness is an asset for strong women.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Perfect…in all kinds of ways!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I don’t understand the movement to tattoo everywhere, but I like your explanation, and I do understand the importance and significance of your tattoo. The reminder right there is lovely as a way to keep the strength of your heritage and memories!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Nice message to hold close.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love the story behind your tattoo and how you waited for the perfect idea to get a tattoo. None for me yet, but then, “Never say never.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your explanation as to why and what to tattoo makes clear sense and while you may already have seeds of determination planted in your veins, I hope your new “ink” serves you well.
LikeLike
I love this, what it represents, and I love tattoos.
LikeLike
nice piece, and I can see how it evokes so much for you!
my husband’s Italian family often quote their mom saying “testa dura”- same thing!
LikeLike
Love it! I think meaningful tattoos are awesome. I got one last year for the first time … spent a lot of time planning the meaning of it, and love it more every time I look at it. So fun!
LikeLike