If You See Someone With A Semicolon Tattoo, This Is What It Really Means

July 7, 2015

You may have seen tattoos of semicolons while browsing social media, but these tattoos aren't celebrating a punctuation mark; they have a much deeper symbolism.

Amy Bleuel / Facebook

It began in the spring of 2013, when Project Semicolon founder, Amy Bleuel (pictured above) wanted to honor her father whom she lost to suicide. Through the semicolon symbol, many related to the struggle of depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide and their will to continue on.

The title, "Project Semicolon," also represented a goal – to believe that this is not the end but a new beginning.

Facebook

According to Project Semicolon's website:

"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."

Instagram / #semicolonproject

Over the past year Project Semicolon has become much more than just one person honoring a parent.

Through musician support and social media, the message of hope and love has reached a big audience in many different countries.

Instagram / #semicolonproject

By encouraging people to share their marks and stories, Project Semicolon seeks to instill hope and open up a dialogue about mental health.

Facebook

People suffering from these issues don't have to feel alone because there are thousands of people out there with similar struggles - their own semicolons.

Instagram / #semicolonproject

Visit Project Semicolon to learn more.