For different people, tattoos and other body markings can represent a wide range of meanings. Something that is revered in one part of the world could be viewed as inappropriate in another; a symbol or piece of art that has significant value in one place might seem like random squiggles in another. It’s safe to say, in my opinion, that for as long as we have been as a species, people have used their appearances to communicate ideas and express themselves.
Unless you’re a resident of a remote island, you’re probably accustomed to seeing tattooed individuals. Certain designs can be little regrets from childhood, but others might have deeper significance—telling tales or following customs or traditions, for example.I don’t know about you, but I always find it fascinating when I see the same tattoo on multiple people.
That is to say, I’m instantly captivated by the meaning of the tattoo and the reasons the owner felt it was so important to have it on display for the rest of their lives. One that I have witnessed many times over the years but have never taken the time to look into is the so-called “red string of fate.”
The small red tattoo will certainly be recognizable to some of our readers, but it is unlikely that many of those who have seen it before will get its symbolic meaning. I did say that I had seen a couple folks with the tattoo. Certainly enough to identify a trend. I had no idea what this mark meant, but it had to imply something.
I used the internet to conduct some research and found that the red thread tattoo in issue is known as the “red string of fate” in Asian traditions. Usually seen on men’s thumbs and women’s pinky fingers, the tattoo has a basic bow-like design with tails that mimics a tied shoelace.This small tattoo has a meaning that is centered on optimism and desire.
The tale is purportedly based on a folktale from China about a matchmaker who foretells the partners that each of us is destined to meet.Naturally, the notion that one is fated to meet someone else is not exclusive to romantic endeavors, nor is the idea of sharing an invisible relationship with another person confined to any one culture; rather, it is present in practically all of them.
No matter where they are, when they are, or what happens, two people are meant to be lovers, according to the red string of fate. That is a comforting and pleasurable concept for some people. Still others, meanwhile, surely would prefer to be masters of their own fate.
Black Couple Opens Up About Their Journey to Adopting Three White Children
Sadie and Jarvis Sampson: A Journey to Parenthood Beyond Expectations
Sadie and Jarvis Sampson spent years trying to conceive, exhausting every option before they came to terms with the idea that their path to parenthood might look different. Then, an unexpected text message changed everything overnight.
The couple, married in January 2018, initially tried to conceive naturally. When that didn’t work, they turned to every method they could think of: ovulation tests, prenatal vitamins, fertility tracking apps, and fertility monitors.
“We even tried the unsolicited advice of friends, family, and strangers to ‘just relax.’ For 14 months, we tried, prayed, and waited. Month after month, we faced negative pregnancy tests. It felt like we were running out of options,” Sadie shared with Love What Matters.
Doctors offered little guidance, often advising Sadie to lose weight to increase her chances of conceiving. Determined, Sadie underwent gastric surgery and successfully lost 28 pounds. Her OBGYN was thrilled and told her, “If you’re not pregnant within six months, I’ll refer you to a fertility specialist.”
Despite the weight loss and renewed hope, pregnancy still didn’t happen. “I felt like I was born to be a mother,” Sadie admitted. “But even after everything, we had to accept that we might only ever be an aunt and uncle.”
A Life-Changing Text
Just as they began to let go of their dream, Sadie received a text from a friend asking if they’d consider fostering a baby. The baby’s biological parents were unable to care for him, and the caseworker initially asked them to foster while the mother sought treatment.
The couple hesitated, afraid of growing attached to a child they might not be able to keep. But soon, the story took a surprising turn: “The birth mom decided she would like you guys to adopt the child instead,” the caseworker told them.
“Holy crap!” Sadie recalled exclaiming. “We went from being childless to being told, ‘You guys are parents!’ overnight.”
The weekend was filled with excitement, nerves, and cautious optimism as they waited to see if the birth mother would change her mind. But by Monday, it was official: the mother wanted them to adopt her son through an independent adoption.
Their baby boy, Ezra Lee, was born prematurely at 33 weeks, weighing just 4 pounds, 5 ounces. “He was so tiny, he literally fit in one of my husband’s hands,” Sadie recalled.
Building a Family That Doesn’t Have to Match
The Sampsons shared their adoption story on social media, and friends and family rallied around them, purchasing 55 out of 72 items from their baby registry in just three days.
Ezra’s adoption was finalized in October 2020. The family celebrated the occasion with matching t-shirts that read, “Families don’t have to match.”
In 2021, the Sampsons’ family grew again when they welcomed twin girls, Journee and Destinee, through embryo donation. Staying true to their family motto, this Black couple became proud parents to three white children: Ezra, Journee, and Destinee.
When faced with judgment or curiosity about their family dynamic, Sadie and Jarvis have one clear message: their family is built on the strongest foundation possible—love.
Their story is a powerful reminder that families come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and that love knows no boundaries. Please share their inspiring journey with others.
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