the TAO of TATTOOING 39

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
39

In harmony with the Tao,

the tattooer has good clients,

his clients are satisfied,

his business is smooth running,

stable and reliable.

When a tattooer interferes with the Tao,

he will not have enough work,

his customers will be dissatisfied,

his business will be chaotic,

unpredictable and dissatisfying.

The Master tends each part of his business with care,

because he understands the whole business.

His constant practice is humility.

He is not loud or intimidating

but responds with sensitivity to his clients.

All types find him approachable and welcoming.