the TAO of TATTOOING 26

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



26

Seriousness about your tattooing,
is the root of having fun with it.
Stability in your community,
is the source of all serious clientele.

The master may travel often,
but returns to the community who supports him.
However pleasant the journey,
he remembers where his home is.

If you let restlessness drive you,
clients may not trust you.
Great works of art take the sort of time,
that only a stable tattooer can offer.