the TAO of TATTOOING 32

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



32

The Tao is like the air we breathe,
invisible, yet we owe our existence to it.

If those within the tattoo community who are burdened with notoriety,
could remain centered in the Tao,
there would arise a more noble culture of tattooers.
A role model can be considered worthy
if their example compels others to embrace higher standards.

Mastery indicates ones alignment with the Tao.
No amount of excuses, blame, or clever language
can repel ones responsibility to this law.
Follow the flow of the Tao,
to be free from risk of failure.