the TAO of TATTOOING 28

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



28

The places and stations that society idolizes,
are highly specialized, and precarious.
The exceptional are vulnerable.
Despising them is a common way,
that people avoid self loathing.
Therefore do not seek celebrity.
Instead seek a balance of effort and reward.

In tattooing, as in life it is best,
to cultivate humility, simplicity, and generosity.
These traits are like the TAO.
When a tattooer is aligned with the TAO,
he will be blameless in his efforts,
unstoppable in his creativity,
and favored by his community.