09/11/2023
***19 YEAR ANNIVERSARY***
Wow. 19 years ago I embarked on a journey that has lasted until now. Taking that leap of faith was scary, as it should have been. And the years rolling past have been an up-and-down roller coaster that I have ridden mostly with my arms up and not holding onto the safety bar. At times I felt as though I knew what I was doing, other times I wondered if I would ever learn anything at all... But here is one thing I DO know, after all this damn time--- I DID IT FOR 19 FRIGGIN YEARS ALL ON MY OWN!!! I have trained other artists along the way, some who have taken what they were given and tried to emulate my style or my achievements, some with respect and some without. People and friends and clients have all come and gone, and the most awesome, most real, and most down to earth individuals have remained. I have taken all of my punches and I AM STILL STANDING!!! I AM STILL HERE!!! EVERYONE AND THE WHOLE UNIVERSE HAS TAKEN THEIR BEST SHOTS THUS FAR, BUT WHEN THE DUST HAS SETTLED IT IS I WHO REMAINS ON THE TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN. ME. I. ALONE.
This reminds me of a story I heard long ago, before I ever started tattooing. It's about a Tiger on a hill... And basically it says-- The Tiger on the hill is not as hungry as the Tiger climbing the hill. He's not as hungry, but when HE WANTS THE FOOD, ITS THERE.
Anyone who has ever met me for even a moment knows how kind and humble of a man I am. I don't try to be this; it's not an act... I don't have to act this out because it is just who I am. There have been times when I have despised this part of my personality and have felt way too kind and way too humble and giving, and way too much of a doormat for people and I've learned my lessons and been taken advantage of many times just like anybody else. But I think 19 years in my own vehicle that EYE created myself, ON A DAY LIKE TODAY DESERVES TO BE CELEBRATED AND I AM NOT APOLOGETIC AT ALL. I have definitely earned the right to brag at least for one day, and to feel like the Tiger on top of the mountain right now. Because I AM.
After tomorrow's silence, to pay respects for all the lives lost on that terrible day 22 years ago, I will pick this back up and run with it. There will be a giveaway soon, there has to be-- and there will be. Thanks to all who have supported me in any way over the last couple of decades, and also to those of you that read this all this way to the end, haha!!! And keep your eyes open for a tattoo giveaway to be announced soon!! Team Tigerseye for the win!!!