Think Before You Ink

Once in our hometown paper there was a tattooed lady slap dab on the front page.
Her story? She felt discriminated because she can not find someone to hire her because of her tattoos. Now, let me mind you, this lady not only had tattoos and looked like a walking comic book, but she had half a shaved head, yep just one side, and sporting a leopard print tattoo on the side of her face. I mean, come one...really? I do not think its all about the tattoos. People are to quick to throw the "discriminate" flag.

A tattoo tells a lot about a person. Just like the way you dress, talk or present yourself. businesses are not discriminating and most have no problem with tattoos as long as they can be covered! Its called "being professional." Most business have a dress code, therefore, makeup, piercings, what you wear and your hairstyle can cost you a job.

I have two tattoos myself. One is from my 20's when I just got a wild idea to do something crazy. Its in a place that can be covered. Its simply a piece of art I drew myself. Its small and no one can see it unless I choose to reveal it.

My other tattoo is on my wrist. Its something I really wanted and do not regret it. I still love it even though the ink bleed and run together (I was warned this could happen)or faded through the years. It spells "Faith". Faith is something I think everyone should have and mine has definitely been tested.

My Tattoo is an "Ambigram tattoo" meaning it reads the same upside down or right side up. Perfect for a wrist.

I understand, if I ever need to look for another job, I will need to cover the tattoo with a bracelet or sleeve. There are things I may attend that are formal that I think sporting a tattoo is out of place or disrespectful. I'm not gonna put up a fuss and use my discrimination card. Its actually kind of fun to "hide" the tattoos sometimes...makes me feel like I have a secret.

My point is, I see nothing wrong with anyone having a tattoo or tattoos. But people really need to think about the future before getting one. Face it, people will judge you by your appearance. That's just human nature. People need to respect rules of businesses and other places you choose to show your "rights".

Sorry if your tattoo was a mistake or your life style and fads have changed, but this is pretty much a permanent marking on yourself so "Think before you Ink".