Tattoo critics need to accept changing times

I’m tattooed, employed and still love Jesus.

It’s no secret tattoos have become more popular over the last few decades. What was once considered distasteful is now becoming trendy. Unfortunately though, not everyone thinks tattoos are acceptable.

Some people believe tattoos can be a sign that someone is a terrible person. What they don’t realize is times have changed.

In the past, many who had tattoos were in gangs or had gotten them in prison. But even then, not everyone who had a tattoo was considered a bad person. So why should I?

I recently got a tattoo in memory of a friend who passed away this past year.

People told me I was a rebel and I was damaging my body. One person even told me it would make me less desirable to people in the future.

Those people are no longer considered friends of mine. It’s my body and I will do what I want to it. My tattoo – a cross with song lyrics around it and my friend’s name – is not damaging or offensive. Sure, the ink is there forever, but I’m OK with that.

I am a Christian who loves my body and would never disrespect it in a way to offend or displease others. If you are against tattoos, that’s fine. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. However, do not try to tell me my tattoo makes me a bad, undesirable person.

I’ve had my tattoo for two weeks now and I still haven’t done drugs, been arrested or started a riot. In fact, the disc in my CD player in my car right now is a mix of some of my favorite Christian songs from various artists.

So those of you out there who think tattoos make people turn away from God, you are wrong. I’m not saying everyone who has tattoos are Christians, but not all of us are defiant and rebellious.

What’s worse is when people bash parents of their tattooed children.

My mother approved of and even paid for me and my sister’s first tattoos. Even if she hadn’t approved of mine, I’m over 18 and didn’t need her consent to get it.

Don’t blame parents for their children’s tattoos either. It’s not poor parenting in every situation, especially when the content of the tattoo design is positive and meaningful to the person.

People need to quit being so critical and judgmental of others and start building each other up. Having tattoos doesn’t mean someone is a bad person. Wake up and realize times are changing and trends are, too. Tattoos are “in” right now and will most likely remain popular for decades to come.

I’m OK with the ink being on me forever, so shake my hand, have coffee with me and get to know me before you make a decision about the kind of person I am.