There are many different reasons that someone would get tattoos or piercings. Many people assume that it is something negative because of the stigma of them that has grown throughout the years. I have never seen a problem with piercings or tattoos or judged anyone who had a bunch of them. As my eighteenth birthday was coming around, I was eager to get a tattoo, and my parents allowed me to get one. Since I have gotten my first tattoo, I have been more aware of the negative connotation towards tattoos from society.

Before I got my first tattoo, many parents heard about it and a few tried to talk me out of getting a tattoo. I repeatedly heard, “You are going to regret getting a tattoo when you are older.” They also would question me as to why I wanted a tattoo, and even today adults ask me why I decided to get my tattoos. My answer to that question is that my tattoos tell a story and proclaim who I am without having to say anything. I think tattoos are art and I like that my body is able to express this art. My tattoos also remind me of who I am when I feel like my identity is blurred in society. Tattoos are more than just ink on my body.

After my eighteenth birthday, I knew I wanted more tattoos, so I got two more. Over the years, I have heard my friends’ parents talk negatively about tattoos, sometimes in front of me. I know a few of the parents will not let their kids get a tattoo as long as the kids live under the roof of their parents. I also have seen many arguments occur on Facebook and Twitter over the topic of tattoos. Many argue that tattoos are unethical or make you look unprofessional. A few of my family members disapprove of my choices, but do not verbally say it. I can just feel their criticism when they see my tattoos or when they hear that I have gotten a new one.

In saying all of this, my point is that I believe that society should be more open towards tattoos. I am starting to see tattoos become more popular within the younger generation as time goes by. In my opinion, I think society should not judge someone by how they look. It is the same as saying, “do not judge a book by its cover.” Looking at the cover of a book can give you a hint of what the book is about. If it interests you, you would read a few pages of the book. If it catches your interest, you read it and learn so much about it.

I think this idiom perfectly fits with the idea of tattoos. People should not be judged on their appearance or individuality. People with tattoos have abilities and other things to offer. For jobs, I think there is a certain extent of how covered up someone’s body is with tattoos and how much the tattoos are exposed, and if they have any offensive tattoos. Someone with a tattoo or tattoos shouldn’t be judged by the amount of tattoos, but be judged on their resumes, degree, and their ability to do that certain job. Tattoos should not have an effect on a career. Some people like to have their art be showcased and hung up, but others like to wear theirs.