[arcsine]

I have a post-graduate degree, had a respectable career as a scientist, changed careers to graphic design and been successful at that, I am a good father, a decent sailor, have a black belt in Aikido and I have a tattoo to boot. It would seem that some folks out there would dismiss me just on the tattoo alone.

While I do not agree with getting tattoos for external reasons (everyone else has one, I want to fit in; Look at how rebellious I am; I was really drunk at the time; etc) they are a valid means of self expression.

People make stupid decisions regarding all sorts of things including tattoos. But that does not mean that all tattoos are stupid nor do I think the mere presence of a tattoo relegates one to a lower caste or is less worthy of respect.