Defy Gravity

Well, blog friends,I did a thing. I got a tattoo! I am a few months late, but I wanted to do something to commemorate 10 years with diabetes. If you had told younger me I would end up getting a tattoo in my twenties she would have thought you were crazy. Even as a teenager I absolutely hated needles and would freak out if I had to get a shot. Life happens, things change (you get diabetes), and here I am. Almost 29 years old with a fresh tattoo.

I’ve had this idea in my head pretty much since I was diagnosed with diabetes. I just never had the courage to go through with it, but one of my closest friends said she wanted to get a new tattoo for birthday so I took the opportunity. Plus having friends go with makes it was better.

I always felt any tattoo I got should be meaningful. This one definitely is. I have always felt that music has given me the words for what I’m feeling when I can’t find them on my own. Defying Gravity is probably my favorite song. I first saw Wicked while on my middle school’s east coast trip. When we got to the NYC part of the trip we went to a Broadway show. The show they picked was Wicked. I fell in love with this song the minute I heard it and during intermission sprinted to buy my own copy of the soundtrack. If you haven’t figured it out, I’m a little bit of a theater nerd. At least I really love watching live theater. If I had any kind of singing talent I’d participate. If you do not know this song you’re missing out on a great song and the magic that is Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth harmonizing together. Your ears will thank you.

This song is the first one I play when I need a confidence boost. I especially love the verse

“So if you care to find me
Look to the western sky!
As someone told me lately
“Everyone deserves the chance to fly!”
And if I’m flying solo
At least I’m flying free
To those who ground me
Take a message back from me

Tell them how I am defying gravity!
I’m flying high, defying gravity!”

Getting Defy Gravity tattooed on my arm is a reminder to trust myself and my abilities. I’ve been “defying gravity” since before I was born. 99% of babies with Turner Syndrome result in miscarriage. I beat the odds just by being born. If I can overcome those odds I can do and get through anything life throws at me. Including diabetes.

For those who are not in the diabetes world, a blue circle is the international symbol for diabetes. The date is the day I was diagnosed with diabetes. Even though diabetes was not the first chronic illness in my life, it is the one that takes most of my time and energy. It has also played a big part in my choices as a young adult. Even if there is a cure I want to have a reminder of the impact diabetes has had in my life. Perhaps I can add to my tattoo when there is a cure?

Whatever happens in life I will continue to defy gravity. That doesn’t mean it will be easy, just that I will keep trying.