I Put A Hole In My Face For God!!

Throughout history, and throughout the world, body piercing has been a part of religious practice and social status. For example, Roman Centurions pierced their nipples to signify strength and virility. This was a badge of honor that demonstrated the Centurion’s dedication to the Roman Empire. Symbolically, piercing was important and served a specific function, in that it unified and bonded the army. (Even Julius Caesar pierced his nipples to show his strength and his identification with his men.)

Tongue piercing has always been practiced by Native American Tribes. The tongue was pierced to draw blood to propitiate the gods, and to create an altered state of consciousness so that the priest or shaman could communicate with the gods.

Body piercing is mentioned in the Bible. In the Old Testament, body jewelry is considered a mark of beauty and wealth. In many cases, body jewelry was given as part of a dowry... making piercing a sign of status and attractiveness during Biblical times.

In India, piercing the left nostril shows your dedication to a particular Deity. I have chosen to show my dedication to God in this way.

So, Kerry... Why didn't you just purchase a cross and wear it on a chain around your neck? First of all, I can't stand to wear stuff around my neck. I feel like I am being strangled. Second, it's not my style. Third, why do what everyone else is doing? It was fairly painless. Morgan went with me to Blue Flame (on Hillsborough Street), and this great guy named Jason took me into a room to help me express my faith. I told him my plans to travel abroad to work in international social justice. I explained him that my piercing was spiritually motivated. I have made the small hole in my nose, the cross around my neck.

I must say... I think that my little piercing is pretty darn cute.