Why do people get tattoos and body piercings?

I am not much into the body piercings at all, however tattoos are about what they represent. I put alot of thought and consideration when I am thinking of a tattoo, and it is a reflection of the inside of me being physically portrayed on the outside. Because the feeling of being a Survivor, the love for my children, the fight for survival has become so intense that it has to come out, and I get a tat.