Christians & Tattoos

I have three tattoos. And I’ve been thinking of getting a few more. I also happen to be a Christian that really digs tattoos. I think they’re unique, creative, and beautiful. However, in the Christian faith, they’re also a topic of controversy. There are a lot of people, particularly certain Christians, who view tattoos as sinful and rebellious. A popular go-to scripture supporting those who are opposed to tattoos can be found in Leviticus 19:28 which reads, “Do not cut your bodies for the dead, and do not mark your skin with tattoos. I am the LORD.”

Some Christians have even insisted that getting tattoos can send you to hell. But I strongly disagree. In fact, I don’t believe tattoos are a heaven or hell issue that dictates anyone’s salvation. And I’ve got a problem with any Christians who go around telling anyone they’re going to hell. First of all, who do you think you are? Surely you can’t think you’re God. Neither is your pastor or your church community or any other religious organizations you might be affiliated with. You’re in no position to call where someone’s soul will end up. I’m abundantly grateful God’s not like man, in the sense that he wouldn’t condemn someone or quickly toss them aside because of something like a tattoo…or several of them. I know preachers who have them. Youth pastors, choir members, ushers, teachers, mentors, counselors, and more, who happen to be Christians and don’t have any kind of shame about being inked.

When I got my first tattoo, I was terrified. The thought of a painful needle was the least of my worries. Going through the physical process of getting tattoos wasn’t as painful as I imagined. What troubled me the most was pushing through a lot of shame, worry, and limited thinking about what certain Christians might say or think of me once they saw me with one. And now I have three! So, I’m not as bothered or concerned about what others think as I once was. I had a former friend who opposed what I was doing, though. She shared that my decision was something a future spouse may not be okay with, which I found odd. Personally, I’d never put my life on hold or a decision about what I want to do with my body because of what a spouse I don’t have or may eventually have, thinks. I’m not married. And even if I was, getting a tattoo is not something I’d ask permission to do anyway. I’m a grown woman who makes my own choices. And if you’re a young woman who meets a guy who has an issue with your tattoo/tattoos before you start dating, reconsider if you want to be with someone who doesn’t accept you as you are. Anyways, I believe getting tattoos or deciding not to get them is an individual choice. Whether Christian or not, no one is in a position to judge you because of your choice. Do you and live your life.

Thoughts From a Black Educator: Qualified, Credentialed, and Constantly Undermined

I’m a Black educator in my fifth year of teaching middle school English, and in my third as the 8th Grade English PLC (Professional Learning Community) Lead. And while I genuinely enjoy the purposeful work I get to do, seeing the growth of my scholars, and continuing to hone my skills in a content area I’ve loved since I was a little girl, I’ve had to confront some unpleasant experiences in this space. I’d been through much worse when I was an academic advisor at a Christian university. Racism, sexism, harassment, and workplace bullying were sadly norms in that environment. However, some of what I’ve experienced as a Black educator hasn’t been normal … It doesn’t seem normal to be the only Black educator in my department – in a predominantly Black school. One of my Black colleagues once said, “It should look like a Tyler Perry movie in here.” But it doesn’t. It didn’t feel normal being reprimanded in a meeting (during my second year of teaching) by an administrator who went in on...

The Day I Made A Will

When I was a teenager, I remember writing a list of my greatest fears. One of the things I listed was death. Looking back, it was an interesting item to list because inevitably, death is something each of us will face at some point in our lives. Even though it’s no longer a fear of mine, I understand why and how it’s not a comfortable thing for everyone to navigate. But regardless, this past summer I completed a detailed will. I signed it, had witnesses sign it, and got it notarized. As I was getting everything done, one of the witnesses looked at me and said, “You know, it’s just that you’re so young…” I’ve learned that death doesn’t care how young or how old you are. You can be five, fifteen, thirty, or fifty, and it’s still something that happens. Completing my will wasn’t scary. It gave me peace of mind having documentation in place stating my detailed directives and requests. A year ago, I had one of my kidneys removed. It was a surgery that came with risks that were presented cle...

A Taste At Colattao Coffee House

I love checking out new coffee spots. It’s nice to take in a space I haven’t been to before that’s so chill, it makes me want to go back and visit again and again. This is exactly how I felt when I stepped into Colattao Coffee House. The kind customer service, the amazing options, and the aesthetically pleasing décor were everything. The aroma of the freshly grounded coffee beans, along with the sight of their mouth-watering pastries didn’t hurt either. I’ve visited this spot just a few times, and always enjoyed myself, my drinks, and my food. It’s definitely worth the trip. If you’re in the Hampton Roads area and looking for a cool and cozy spot for a solo outing or to meet up with a friend, I highly recommend checking out Colattao Coffee House sometime. You’ll enjoy it!

Making Waves