Body Art!!

     Tattoos and body piercings are old practices that still continue into today. Even with the "mainstream" popularity that seems to surround them and cloud the original meaning behind them they still hold a sense of self that holds true even to today's populace. 
  While tattoos may not represent a right of passage in America like they do in other countries around the world such as Samoa. It does still hold a sort of "express your inner self" connotation. People in today's American culture either love them or hate them, but either way they still hold up as a symbol of one's accomplishments or views of the world. 

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   Piercings are a little more tricky. While tattoos hold their own through incredible works of art. Piercings act as more of a "young, wild and free" fad for mostly teenagers. 
   Piercings are a temporary way to appease an adventurous spirit because unlike tattoos, which are permanent unless surgically removed, piercings can be taken out and scars closed.
   As far as whether or not people should be allowed to get either of them is up to the individual who wants to. Obviously, there are some rules that go along with the practice such as a certain image to be upheld at the office or in any professional environment, but if a person is serious about participating that type of thing shouldn't bother them too much. There are steps that can be taken in order to cover one's self properly while on company time.

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   However, while expressing your life experiences on your canvas (a.k.a- your body)is important based on whatever personal values you hold dear it should NOT be a thing used to jeopardize close relationships such as with family. If your family is like mine and they don't "believe" in the art of tattooing I just recommend waiting until either A.) you wear your mom down with pathetic begging techniques or B.) simply waiting until you leave the house to live on your own because your house your rules.

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   **On a last quick note: MAKE SURE YOU REALLY WANT THE TATTOO YOU'RE GETTING PERMANENTLY INKED UNDER YOUR SKIN!! Don't go in "half-cocked" because something looks cute. Make sure it means something personal to you that way you don't wake up one day regretting something stupid.