The final decision

With the help of many great teachers I think I've decided to wait on my newest tattoo. (:

Last night I posted on facebook about how I really really want a visible tattoo, but I know that as a teacher, they aren't very professional. 

So some of the responses from people were:

" I think it comes down to whether or not, if necessary (i.e. if potentially offensive), said tattoo can be hidden."

"That's a very positive quote . . . does it mean enough to you to 1) have it be there for the rest of your life, and 2) be visible to everyone you meet? If at least one answer is no, then I'd seriously reconsider. But if both answers are yes, then your decision is obvious. =)"

"Katria - Surprise! I have a tattoo, but I did choose to put it somewhere where very few people see it (on my upper left arm). You see, I didn't get the tattoo for anyone besides myself which is why I really like Lefebvre's advice. BTW it was a 40th bday present to myself."

"Don't forget - you have to get hired first. It's not the students that you have to worry about, it's the hiring committee. Many of us either hid our tatoos during the process, or got them after the fact. There is a big difference. Also, some districts won't allow visible ink. We are lucky that's not the case with GHS, but who's to say that won't change in the future? If so, we have to be ready to cover up!"

"Just to provide the other side of things, I've never seen a tattoo that I thought was attractive or interesting. I'm not saying that to discourage you, but to share that there will always be people that will be distracted & put off initially if they see such a visible tattoo. It wouldn't change my opinion of you as a person, but it would be distracting. Why not have the same sentiment inscribed on a piece of jewelry?"

 And those are all from teachers who either currently work at Gladstone (the school I hope to teach at in a few years! :D) or have worked there in the past. So I think for now I'll just get it done in Henna in the exact place that I want the real one(on my right forearm) and see the reactions I get. I also emailed the vice principle at Gladstone to see what she thought. Because I know there are at least three teachers with visible tattoos. (one with a whole sleeve).

So, the verdict is that "While we may come from different places and speak in different tongues, our hearts all beat as one" will wait awhile longer, unless decided to put in a more inconspicuous place. (: 

Thanks everyone for their help!

Peace, love, and follow the spiders. <3

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