Growing up in a conservative religious private school meant living in a world defined by strict rules, firm expectations, and little room for personal expression. Dress codes dictated what you wore and skirt lengths, hairstyles were scrutinized, no colored hair was allowed, and nothing outside of the “norm”. Don’t draw attention to yourself, don’t be flashy. Uniforms were standard, carefully regulated, and even the smallest deviation, like an untucked shirt or non black/white shoes, led to disciplinary action. For me, this pressure to conform wasn’t just about what I wore but how I was supposed to think and behave. It was about control. For others, these cookie cutter rules shaped a happily structured and obedient lifestyle. Just fall in line and do not ask questions.  Questioning authority was frowned upon and individuality was seen as “rebelling”or “ungodly”. Creativity wasn’t necessarily celebrated unless it fit the standards deemed acceptable by the school. 

Piercings became my way of saying no to rigid expectations and finally saying yes to my individuality. My first piercing wasn’t just about aesthetics but making a statement. As I continued to push the limits, getting more earrings/piercings, gauging my ears, and coloring my hair the more disapproval I was met with. But for every reprimand, uniform violation, lunch detention, and the more I was told no, the more I wanted to push the limits! Soon it was not just the school who had a problem but my family as well. I didn’t care, nobody, not even my family or god, was going to tell me who I can or can’t be. I am my own person.

At first glance, a piercing might seem like a small thing but all 20 of my piercings carry an emotional meaning. They’re milestones and reminders to continue to be myself and to never hold myself back; they’re a part of me. I still remember very vividly when I got my septum pierced and my dad texted me a picture of a bull. It was meant to insult me but I took it as a compliment. What’s wrong with being a bull? They’re strong, tough, resilient and often symbolize the ability to stand tall in the face of adversity. Remember, the only person who can grab life by the horns, is You.