School Of Tats

Kids today are trying new things that normally one would wait until you're an adult to do.

Kids with tattoos are not as rare as they once were because of the fascination with them. Although you have to be 18 to get a tattoo in Iowa, many kids are going out of state where they can get tattooed as young as 16.

In my own experience, I have been exposed to tattoos through my dad, mom, and sister. I have always known I wanted one. The best advice I received from my family was to make sure whatever I got was meaningful since it will always be on my body.

Tattoos were frowned upon due to who had them: those in prison and gangs. So, many people used to view tattoos as a bad thing. However, today's society world has taken a whole new point of view on them.

Now, tattoos are used to show someone's creativity and to show off what one person finds interesting. Many people nowadays also get tattoos to show their love for family members or friends who are living and who have passed away.

I, for one, have my family crest on my ribs, which includes our family shield with a three-leaf clover and the initials of my father. When I have a son in the future, he will get the same family crest tattoo but with my initials. Family tattoos and traditions are very important to my family.

Society has changed, so as you see more and more people with tattoos, try not to judge too quickly. Ask the person about their backstory on what the tattoo means, and you will be surprised at what they have to say.