| I wasn't able to pick a poll choice, because none of them fit my opinion. I love my tatoo, but it has meaning to me (most tatoo'd people will tell you this though), it is not just a 'thing to do'. I was also careful to place it somewhere most people will never see it (it is for me more than 'them'), and yet, when I want it to be seen, it is not publicly (and I stress 'publicly' only because it seems to be the majority 'social' opinion) heinous (like a giant flaming wanker with a sword through it dripping blood or anything).
I don't think there is anything wrong with anyone wanting a tatoo- even the type I just described, and with regards to those who find them offensive, I am sure that the tatoo'd person would tell you that is fine- they aren't concerned about that. Those who like them, hang out with those who have them and vice versa. I would like to stress that I thought seriously for YEARS before taking the plunge because I saw how people were initially treated who had them. I have come to learn that tatoos, though not as mischaracterizing as they used to be, are still not the social norm- and no matter how much it 'isn't fair', people will judge you by the first impression they have, and unfortunately tatoos are one of those things that people use to make those first impressions - right or wrong. Example: I knew a guy who was a fantastic, professional chef. Problem was, he also loved his very hard 'won', Japanese inked tatoos- which were ALL over his torso. He 'collected' them. He had the most incredible fish and dragons everywhere, in phenomenal colors. He wore long sleeve shirts, buttoned up to his neck, even in the summer because no matter how good he was, people just naturally freaked when they saw him arranging their food. It is just the way it is (again- right or wrong, 'they' are the majority holders of the 'socially' respectable, who make the 'rules' about this stuff)- and if that doesn't bother you, great! But if it may someday bother you, or you are going to get violently defensive about the 'whatever' on your bicep every time someone gives you 'that look' (you all know what I am talking about) you should really think about what, where, and why you are getting one- making a statement is great if you understand not everyone will agree with you, but getting stupid about it because you think everyone else's opinion is wrong is just as bad as the church lady who doesn't even know you and yet tells you that you are going to hell for it.
Sooo to answer the poll the long way around...my opinion isn't the one that really matters. How does the woman feel about her tatoos? Does she think they make her look good? I can guarantee that someone agrees with that and finds her attractive. I don't think it is important to force people into the 'socially appropriate' mold if they don't want to go. If everyone were the same, the world would be an exceptionally boring place. Look at the fun conversation this particular thread has lent itself to! People love to talk about the unusual or offensive or strange and intriguing...its human nature. |