#amy bleuel

[alertfacts]

Semicolon Tattoo Meaning: What It Symbolizes

Have you ever spotted someone with a small, seemingly unassuming semicolon tattoo and wondered what it means? You’re not alone! This tiny punctuation mark, inked on countless wrists, ankles, and behind ears, carries profound significance. But what does a semicolon tattoo mean, really? More than just a trendy symbol, it’s a powerful emblem of hope, resilience, and the battle against mental health struggles. As we dive deep into its symbolism, we’ll explore the history, meaning, and the personal stories behind this poignant tattoo. If you’ve ever been curious about why people choose to permanently mark themselves with this humble symbol, keep reading—you’re in for a revelation.

The History Behind the Semicolon Tattoo

The Birth of a Movement

The semicolon tattoo didn’t just appear out of thin air; it emerged from a movement with a mission. Back in 2013, Amy Bleuel, who sadly lost her father to suicide, founded Project Semicolon. She wanted to honor her father’s memory and provide hope to others struggling with similar challenges. The semicolon, in this context, was the perfect symbol. In writing, a semicolon is used when an author could have ended a sentence but chose not to. Bleuel saw this as a metaphor for life—the semicolon represented a choice to continue rather than end one’s story. So, what does a semicolon tattoo mean? It’s a reminder that life goes on, even after the darkest of times.

The Spread of the Semicolon Tattoo

Initially, Project Semicolon aimed to raise awareness about mental health issues and provide support to those in need. However, the semicolon tattoo quickly gained popularity far beyond its original community. Celebrities, influencers, and everyday individuals began getting semicolon tattoos to show their support for the cause. It wasn’t just a symbol; it became a conversation starter, a way to break the silence surrounding mental health. But why has this tattoo resonated with so many? And what does a semicolon tattoo mean to each person who gets one? The answers lie in the deeply personal stories behind each tattoo.

The Symbolism of the Semicolon Tattoo

A Symbol of Survival

For many, the semicolon tattoo is a badge of survival. It represents the battles fought and won, the times when giving up seemed like the easiest option, but wasn’t. It’s a visual reminder of strength, resilience, and the decision to keep going despite the odds. When someone asks, what does a semicolon tattoo mean to you? the answer is often deeply personal. It’s about choosing life, embracing the journey, and acknowledging the struggles that have shaped who you are.

A Beacon of Hope

Hope is another powerful element of the semicolon tattoo. In a world where mental health issues are often stigmatized, this tiny mark serves as a beacon of hope for those who may be struggling in silence. It’s a way to show others that they are not alone in their fight. By wearing a semicolon tattoo, individuals send a message of solidarity and support. They are telling the world that there is always hope, even in the darkest of times.

A Call for Awareness

One of the most significant impacts of the semicolon tattoo is its role in raising awareness about mental health. When someone sees the tattoo and asks, what does a semicolon tattoo mean? it opens up a conversation about topics that are often difficult to discuss. This tattoo is more than just a symbol; it’s a tool for education and advocacy. It encourages people to speak out about their experiences and seek help when needed. By making mental health visible, the semicolon tattoo helps to break down the barriers of stigma and misunderstanding.

Why People Choose the Semicolon Tattoo

Personal Stories of Resilience

Every semicolon tattoo has a story behind it, and these stories are as diverse as the people who wear them. Some get the tattoo to commemorate their struggles with depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges. Others choose it to honor a loved one who has faced similar battles. For some, the semicolon tattoo is a way to reclaim their narrative and take control of their lives. It’s a declaration that they are not defined by their past but by their strength and resilience.

A Global Community

What’s remarkable about the semicolon tattoo is how it has brought together a global community of individuals who share a common bond. Whether you’re in New York, Tokyo, or a small town in Italy, the meaning of the semicolon tattoo transcends language and culture. It’s a universal symbol of hope, survival, and solidarity. When someone asks, what does a semicolon tattoo mean to you? the answer may vary, but the underlying message is the same: you are not alone.

A Statement Against Stigma

In a society where mental health issues are often misunderstood or ignored, the semicolon tattoo is a bold statement against stigma. By choosing to display this symbol openly, individuals are challenging the norms and encouraging others to do the same. They are saying, “I have struggled, but I am still here.” The semicolon tattoo is a way to reclaim power and reject the shame that often accompanies mental health challenges.

The Impact of the Semicolon Tattoo

Changing the Narrative

One of the most profound effects of the semicolon tattoo is its ability to change the narrative around mental health. By wearing this symbol, individuals are rewriting the story of their lives. They are choosing to focus on their strength rather than their struggles, their victories rather than their defeats. The question what does a semicolon tattoo mean? becomes an opportunity to share these stories of resilience and hope.

A Ripple Effect of Awareness

The impact of the semicolon tattoo goes beyond the individual. Every time someone shares their story, it creates a ripple effect of awareness and understanding. The conversation that starts with what does a semicolon tattoo mean? can lead to greater empathy, support, and change. This tattoo has the power to inspire others to seek help, to open up about their struggles, and to find hope in their darkest moments.

A Lasting Legacy

Amy Bleuel’s vision for the semicolon tattoo has created a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and uplift people around the world. The movement she started has grown into something much larger than she could have ever imagined. Today, the semicolon tattoo is a symbol of life, hope, and the ongoing fight against mental health stigma. It’s a legacy that will continue to impact lives for generations to come.

Conclusion

In the end, what does a semicolon tattoo mean? It’s a question that may have different answers depending on who you ask, but the underlying message remains the same. This small punctuation mark carries a weight of meaning that is both personal and universal. It’s a symbol of survival, a beacon of hope, and a call for awareness. Whether you’re considering getting a semicolon tattoo or simply curious about its significance, remember that it represents more than just ink on skin. It’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, life goes on. So, the next time you see a semicolon tattoo, take a moment to appreciate the powerful story it tells and the hope it brings to those who need it most.

[cjoatprehn]

Update - October 15, 2023

Old & New

I have found records of old traditional works that I no longer have in my possession, due to familial bullshit and they have most if not all of my traditional artwork now. I found photos on discord so I can share a few of them.

This was a commission in early high school. Took two weeks—kept picking my hair as time went by. I am incredibly satisfied even now of the results. This is Shenron in Crayola colored pencils. References helped a lot but took some time to hone fully. The commissioner, a former coworker of my birthgiver, loved it. So much hair was pulled from my head during the 2 weeks worked on this in creative frustration.

With Shenron, my only regret is not charging more for the process. Past me listen, $7-$15 is not enough to charge for how many Crayola colored pencils and hair you pulled out throughout this.

This self portrait was made during my Junior year of high school. Star Wars themed. Yes, I had that lightsaber and the poncho at the time, lightsaber duels were frequent in our lunchtime in my bunch of friends. One of our duels appeared on school news at one point. I used oil pastels. I finished first before every one else surprisingly.

Valentine’s Day Sapphic commission. A butch came to me for a portrait of their snowy day Selfie. Her gf’s reaction was worth it on Valentine’s Day. Prismacolor Markers. I received her video reaction at work in the campus mailroom on Valentine’s Day on the Fucking dot. She found out it was me afterwards.

This was a 2-piece study of acrylics with cool and warm colors of one photographed scene, we chose one detail in the photograph to be the opposing cool/warm color scheme.

This piece is a Transparency study, one of my favorite studies to paint in acrylic, despite my struggles with time blindness, doing an all-nighter to present it in the next morning. Sadly, I was graded harshly but—it was fun to do regardless.

I was commissioned to paint this, which was hung up for a traditional Kwanzaa event at my college-turned-university. It took awhile—but—worth it all. I wasn’t kidding about that Kwanzaa event, either; I was very pleased it was main art of the event.

Now for New Stuff

I voiced awhile back I wanted a tattoo. This will my first ever tattoo. On the day I received this news, I was delving back into drawing again without pressure of money and now for loving my craft, for the sake of realness and fun for me. It’s how it should have been all along. It took several years of rebuilding the motivation for something small. It’s a small step to building back up to my drawing of my own standards but—it should help. This will be my first tattoo. It’ll be on my wrist.

A semicolon with an elephant motif. There are two iterations of this:

My first straight from my mind, shown below:

Below is @knifecatte’s guidance:

“what's it look like if you let the bottom part of the semicolon be the trunk?”

As for the meaning of this:

“A semicolon tattoo is used as a message of affirmation and solidarity with those who have dealt with suicide, depression, addiction, and other mental health issues. […] It was popularized by Amy Bleuel. […] chose a semicolon as a symbol because it’s “used when an author could’ve chosen to end their sentence, but chose not to. The author is you and the sentence is your life.”

Elephants I’ve held close my entire life. Even if not physically, I see them a lot in media when not looking for them. I love elephants, always have. While one of my headmates is an elephant, they may not choose to stay that way. But my sona is also an elephant.

Finally… video content

Safe for Photosensitivity:

God of War Ragnarok Spoilers - Rated M - 18+ : Going to have you click here, due to the thumbnail featuring an aftermath scene that’s not appropriate for anyone below 18.

I did also make a meme but same reasoning for not displaying it. I wish we could spoiler images or embeds without spoilering the entire post.

That’s all I got. If you’re able to blaze this post, would be greatly appreciated. Other than that, follow me here, @mars-da-volcanic-elemental, and @cjoat-boost. Thanks!

Have an awesome October.

Art dumping time. I’m just going to—dump.. art. And then pin to the top of my profile so..

Just dropping these here.. and I may not be on Tumblr much, but I have notifications on if you submit in something or send an ask or, Send me a message

But otherwise?

Here’s my about me.. and um.. yeah.

And…if you’re interested:

[its365dayschallenge]

[zeereigns-blog]

;

“A semicolon is used when an author could’ve chosen to end their sentence, but chose not to. The author is you and the sentence is your life”

[degirlwhowrites]

Birthday Book Haul

I bought Turtle’s All The Way Down and my friend gifted me The Hate You Give and Project Semicolon.

[its-all-gonna-be-worth-it]

APRIL 16TH - WORLD SEMICOLON DAY

I'm wearing mine with pride everyday;

Sending strength to everyone who struggles with mental health issues or any form of difficult life situations.

Keep fighting fellas (including myself)!!

[drunk-on-writing]

you gave us so much hope when it all could have ended you inspired us to keep going it's because of you that so many beautiful stories are still being written.

Amy Bleuel, the founder of Project Semicolon, has sadly passed away. although she is gone her impact will live on forever. thank you Amy. and for anyone who may need it, the national suicide hotline number is 1-800-273-8255 (cc, 2027)

[positive-affirmation]

Amy Bleuel, Founder of Project Semicolon, Passes Away at 31

Amy Bleuel, known in the mental health community as the person behind the popular semicolon tattoo, passed away on Thursday, March 23 at the age of 31, Project Semicolon confirmed to The Mighty on Wednesday. A cause of death has not yet been reported.

If you see a semicolon as more than just punctuation, you probably know Amy. Her movement, called Project Semicolon, is a global nonprofit dedicated to presenting hope and love for those who are struggling with mental illness, suicide, addiction and self-injury.

She told The Mighty in 2015, “In literature, an author uses a semicolon to not end a sentence but to continue on. We see it as you are the author and your life is the sentence. You’re choosing to keep going.”

The semicolon manifested in both drawings and tattoos and quickly became a sign of hope for those who struggled with self-harm and suicidal thoughts.

(Source: The Mighty)

Thank you, Amy, for your wonderful contribution and for raising awareness about mental illness. You have given so many people hope and I am very sad to hear of your passing.

[mythicaldeathdeity]

Amy Bleuel

Of all the things that trended recently...she wasn't it. Alright, so. Education time. Amy Bleuel went through hell. Her dad commit suicide, and she had issues with depression, self harm, sexual assault, and abuse. So she created Project Semicolon. Basically, the motto is, "Your story is not over," which was really damn clever because the symbol, a semicolon, represents where a writer could have ended a sentence but didn't. Here, the sentence is your life and you're the writer. It marks that you survived a suicide attempt, or suicidal thoughts, or anything to that effect, and you're here now. Alright. She's not here now. Yeah. She committed suicide more than 3 weeks ago. And with all that's been going on, I didn't hear a thing about it. And I wanted y'all to know that. I wanted y'all to know that life becomes too much sometimes and I know it feels awful and you know what, you might not get through it. Everyone says you're going to get through it and everything's going to be okay, but life is shit and not everything works that way. But I'm here. And your family and friends, they might be here. Law enforcement's here. Doctors are here. Suicide hotlines are here. Random people online are here. And, for the time being, you're here. And that's all we asked for. Today, yes. Tomorrow, maybe. Try until you can't, then, if you're done, you're done. And I'm sorry, but I can't say it's going to be okay and boom, it's magically okay. It's hell. But we're all here so far. Let's keep going.

[semicolon-girl-blog]

As a supporter of the Project Semicolon, I’m devastated to hear that the founder of the project, Amy Bleuel, took her own life about two weeks ago. She inspired so many people to keep fighting, only to lose the battle herself. May her beautiful soul rest in peace. She will never be forgotten. 

[music-keeps-me-sane]

My favorite tattoo. Thank you for creating the semicolon project Amy bleuel. Rest in peace.

[missmentelle]

Amy Bleuel, the founder of the Semicolon Project, died this week by suicide. Amy’s life - and by extension, her death - highlight just how complicated suicide prevention can be. She did not suffer in secret, and she was not cowed by stigma. She was not ashamed. Amy was brave enough to speak openly about her struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts, and she inspired thousands of others to do the same. For a lot of people, she represented hope and recovery. 

And yet she’s gone. And it sucks. It sucks a lot. Amy did incredible work, and her death does not change that in any way. The comfort, solidarity and sense of community that she brought to people are very real, and they will continue on into the future. The semi-colon tattoos that people sport are just as meaningful. Suicide prevention is still incredibly important work, even if it couldn’t save her.

In many ways, Amy’s death shows us what we already knew about suicide prevention - it’s tricky. It’s difficult. There’s a lot more to it than fighting stigma and sharing hashtags. There are huge holes in our national mental health care systems, and the general public’s knowledge of mental illness is still shamefully low. But that doesn’t mean there’s no hope. Slowly, people are becoming more aware of what changes need to be made. People are learning how to have these conversations. Resources are out there for people in need.  So if you’ve been struggling with suicidal thoughts, please, please, contact your local helpline or talk to your doctor; your story doesn’t have to end yet.  RIP Amy.

[lightsaber-shine]

R.I.P Amy Bleuel, the beautiful founder of the semicolon project; We all love you so much and wanna say thank you. The semicolon project helped me so much that I got it tattooed on me in 2016. Rest easy beautiful, your now with god 💙

[crisistextline]

“You are the author and your life is the sentence. You’re choosing to keep going.”

If you’re grieving right now, Crisis Text Line is here for you via at 741741 or Messenger at facebook.com/CrisisTextLine

[cazualt]

For those who don't know Amy Bleuel was the founder of the semicolon project the idea behind the project was that much like how a sentence doesn't end after a semicolon, you story isn't over you can and will continue on. This project has inspired hope for those battling depression and self harm. Unfortunately yesterday Amy lost her her own battle with depression at the young age of 31 she is another soul stole but this awful disease. Amy you inspired and changed so many lives, including mine. I don't care if you lost the battle. You fought valiantly and now it is time for you to rest. I know many of you have the semicolon tattoo. I know I wear my with pride and it has actually open up conversations and that is what we need. We need to really start to talk openly about depression and not just with in our own little safe groups. No it needs to have as much publicity as any other disease. We need to remove all stigma around it. People need to know they are not alone and that it is, for the most part, a beatable disease. I hope you know that at all hours of the day I am here. If it helps I will stay up all night for anyone, family, friend, or stranger. I don't care if you need help you got it from me and in any way you need. I will literally come over your house and do nothing but watch a movie because you need someone there but you can't do interaction. Amy I hope you know you are not weak for giving into suicide. You are incredibly strong for fighting as long as you did. I hope you are resting in peace up there. Your battle as ended.