I Got Inked!

[jerseysweet]

Originally Posted by Rose

Jersey, I lost my father in early 2002. He was severely depressed and an alcoholic too. It wasn't the alcohol that took him; he had a genetic heart problem that we never knew about until he passed. But I remember telling a trusted friend not six months before he passed that if he kept on drinking the way he was, he would die within a year.

I think your tribute is beautiful, and my heart goes out to you.

I wish my father had died of a heart attack, or an illness, or because of the alcohol. But he didn't, and thats hard because it means it was his choice to die. It's not supposed to be up to us. You know? I don't believe he is a bad person for killing himself, and nor do I believe it's the "easy way out". Because I've tried, and it's not - I couldn't get passed thinking about it, it was too hard, way to big of a decision for me to make for myself. I can't imagine what he was going through and despite his faults, I miss him more than anything in the world.

Kate

[Kate]

Congrats of your tattoo! I'd always wanted one since I was a kid and got my first when I was 28--freaked a lot of people out. I now have five and know that number six will come when I have the money. Yeah, they hurt a lot but so what? I promise you that you'll love having it.

[Veronica Daniels]

That is a sad story, Jersey. One I am all too familiar with. I ran the family program in an alcohol and drug treatment program for years. That is where I worked when I first got out of grad school. It is a "cunning, baffling and powerful disease" says the big book of AA and I have always found that to be a very true statement. Alcoholism and depression often go hand in hand. I am sorry for the loss of your father, that is very hard on a young girl.

You have chosen a lovely way to remember his spirit! Good for you!

I got my first and only tattoo about three years ago. It has great meaning for me as well and I have never regretted it because of that.

Best always-
Veronica