the TAO of TATTOOING 10

Foreword

In this series of blog entries I will offer my fledgling, humble interpretations of Lao-Tsu's 81 chapters of the Tao te ching, as it applies to tattooing.  I am in no way attempting to represent myself as a master of Taoist philosophy, however Lao-Tsu's teachings have inspired me for several decades, and I often look to them for inspiration in dealing with the many challenges of my chosen profession.
   I intend to find my way through each of the chapters, and compile them here in my blog until they are complete, at which time I will publish them in book form for my friends and colleagues in tattooing. I hope that my interpretations might assist and inspire my peers, my clients, my friends, to better understand tattooing, and the meaningful impact it has on all of our lives.  And if perhaps these interpretations lead anyone back to the original teachings of Lao-Tsu, well then I will have truly done something to enrich the world.

the TAO of TATTOOING

10

Can you bring your mind back from its wandering

and focus on those needle tips?

Can you keep your hands, arms, and shoulders

from clenching and cramping?

Can you cultivate your own mind

until you are steadfast in positivity?

Can you love your clients and guide them

with their own best interests in mind?

Can you take control of the design phase

by letting the clients needs move you?

Can you forget the absolutes you imagine

and let yourself find a new way of thinking?

Creating beauty and supporting your client,

Owning your work, though it does not belong to you,

tattoo without expectations,

guiding without imposing your will:

this is the path to mastery.