Stories on the Body

By: Jacob Robbins

Imagine being born in the south, then moving to the West Coast. Someone might get a tattoo of their home skyline, and show the transition of New Orleans to the West Coast. This is something that you may never forget but it’s something to show about yourself that can help define who you are. Tattoos have been around for a while now, and before it wasn’t a good thing to have a tattoo.

Having a tattoo in the past was basically saying that you were a thug, or someone who has been to jail, or someone that is in a gang, and a face tattoo was the worst of all meaning you killed someone.

Before in a group of friends, was rare for one or more people in a group to have a tattoo, now of days you might find one or two without a tattoo. According to Derrick Grace II, “I was initially intrigued by body art because of the expression and individuality that comes along with it. I've never been a fan of comfortability, acceptance, or status quo. Illustrating your vessel with your beliefs and story, falls hand in hand with self-expression and uniqueness. I couldn't resist.”

If you were to look at Mr. Grace what would honestly be your perception of this African American male?

Figure 1 picture of Derrick Grace II, this is when he first released his book on amazon

 The perception of this man would not be a fellow church attender. It wouldn’t be a good father, someone that couldn’t find a job, or someone that had been in jail for several occasions.

If you ask Mr. Grace what he does he will simply tell you, “I initially created my own clothing brand, Millionaire Bound. Aside from my brand and internet presence, I included the reselling of exclusive and hard to find footwear. From the likes of Nike, Jordan Brand, Adidas Etc. Seeking more ventures and expressions of my true gifts, I published and successfully sold the highest Apparel App ever on Google Play, along with releasing my first ever autobiography on Amazon in 2014 and 2015. My best gift to date, is my willingness to help, advise and demonstrate selflessness. For the last two years I've been diving heavily into philanthropy, serving as a leader, motivational speaker, and visionary for many different individuals.”

This isn’t something that you would expect out of a man with this appearance. People judge on appearance and think that all tattoos are a bad idea. But sometimes a tattoo can explain yourself more than you can in words. I asked Mr. Grace what kind of tattoo you should look for. He replied with “The person you are should shape your ink. These are permanent markings. Make them count, tell a story, and use them as therapy.”

When you get a tattoo you must endure the pain and remember that whatever it is that you are going to get it will be permanent. I asked about some of his tattoos and this was his reply, “Every line of ink on my canvas has a meaning to it or represents a period in my life. I've lost count to this date, but have 27 separate tattoos in my face alone. The light bulb along my cheek, represents one of the most simple, but least practiced powers in this universe. The ability to think. Many people are awaking and moving with absolutely no direction on purpose. They ask no questions or seek substance. Simply going with the flow of tradition and trends. Many of us logically have no idea, why we really what we do 365 days a year. We're moving with an outdated cycle and swallowing regurgitated information. Another facial tattoo, reads ‘The 1’. I'm a firm believer in the power of thoughts and tongue. I tattooed this saying before I covered any substantial ground. 4 years later and I haven't looked back yet.”