the TAO of TATTOOING 44

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



44

A tattooer may strive for success, money, and fame.
Though these may each lead to failure, poverty, and destruction.

Seeking fulfillment and happiness outside of ones self
will only create insatiable desire.
Causing one to forever hunt an elusive satisfaction
like a hungry ghost.

Content yourself with where you are in your career.
It is from this place of contentment
that one may find the clarity
upon which advancement depends
and to which success naturally flows.