Just a handful of the incredibly expressive tattoos are shown here.

It’s a big decision to get inked, and fans usually go for striking designs that make a strong impression. Aesthetics are not disregarded, though, and as a result, stunning and profoundly perceptive works of art are produced.

Every one of these 21 tattoo images has a touching backstory.

use his feline enjoys entering his bedroom covertly at night

2. His daughter’s voice

3. In memory of their brave grandmother

4. Three brothers, one theme

5. To stand in for her son, whom she raised by herself

6. It’s never too late to have your very first tattoo.

7. They chose to get tattoos of one other’s faces even though they had never met in person!