Answer if you have a tatoo....?

Why do people get tatoos? Honestly, I dont even understand the meaningful ones (Like a passed loved ones name). Seriously, they look painful, they look really unattractive, and they cost alot of money! (my friend told me 50$ for a smallish one, so big ones must be a fortune!) I want to know what drives people to permanently mark their skin. Im writing an article on it. Please only answer if you have a tatoo.