Have you ever wondered what a tattoo might look like when the individual turns 80? What does a wrinkled tattoo really look like? I don't really think I want to know.

This brings me to the question why in the world does a person decide to get a tattoo. Are they an art lover? Do they want to impress someone? Do they really think long term?

Now I understand the use of tattoos in primitive societies. They were used as a sign of adulthood and a way for individuals to identify themselves with a certain clan or tribe, or to mark an accomplishment. I can understand why street gangs still use them as identification, but for the life of me I can not understand why a normal intelligent individual would want to have a tattoo.

I am actually glad that a lot of criminals decide to get a tattoo. I can't think of a better way for the police to be able to identify an individual committing a crime.

I really admire the art work on most of the tattoos that women have. I make sure to admire the tattoos where ever they are exposed on their bodies. I figure they must want me to look at the art work regardless where it is and so far I have never been slapped for saying nice tattoo.

The shame is that whenever I see a tattoo it reminds me of the German Doctor that had them tanned during World War II and made lamp shades out of the results.

I just figure that if someone is going to poke holes in me I should get something more out of it, like maybe a H1N1 vaccination. But that just me and I still will enjoy seeing butterflies, bluebirds and tiny wonder women showing up on interesting parts of the human body.

I think a good investment in a few years will be in tattoo removal equipment.

Then there is body piercing another ancient custom that needs to be put to rest but that's tomorrow's topic.