by Clark S.

Created on: February 27, 2009

Tattoos are one of the more harmless controversial issues we face today. They have become a large part of our culture and society for people between the ages of 18 and 30. Times have definitely changed, and body art is becoming more accepted. This is not as much by choice as it is that everyone in this generation seems to have them.

Traditional values still remain the same. Most people expect tattoos not to be displayed for certain occasions such as weddings, funerals, Christmas dinner or a corporate job interview. I find myself wondering how many big business executives might role up their sleeves to reveal a tattoo of their own.

The big question is: will time move forward in accepting body art, or will it revert back to passing judgment and putting people in the category of rock stars and criminals?

For this reason, I can't help but be skeptical of what happens if future generations frown upon tattoos as have generations past? How will it influence children's views on their elders? Personally, I love a good tattoo. Many people I know have them and do not let what others think bother or influence them in any way. I admire their courage to fight the battle with people who still pass judgment. When a tattoo carries significance, it becomes a stand just like with any belief or conviction.

The best thing to do when getting your first tattoo is to think about it for one year. If you still want the same design after that amount of time, you should definitely get it. I have known people who bear their soul in body art and others that get tattoos of trendy emblems that become embarrassing years later.

Tattoos have always fascinated me, but the level of commitment they carry turns me off. Temporary tattoos are more my style, but the advances in technology today with products like Wrecking Balm, all tattoos may become temporary. Even President Obama has set aside $200,000 in the stimulus package for tattoo removal in California. What does this say about tattoos?

The best advice, which applies to more than just tattoos, is to do what is best for you. If tattoos fit into your lifestyle and you could care less about public opinion, go for it. If upsetting Grandma still makes you want to cry, opt for a temporary one or invest in a lot of long sleeved shirts and pants. Even with all the tattoo removal advances, you should only get one that you are prepared to keep forever.

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