What would you have done?

Question

I went to a cub scout training class today. One of the "trainers" told a story about his daughter, and he mentioned body piercings. The lady sitting beside me started saying very negative things about body jewlery, tattoos and the people who have them. It only lasted a min or so, BUT... I have 5 tattoos and 1 body piercing. I kept my mouth shut. I have regreted it all day. I feel like I should have asked her if she felt that way about me.. then told her I have my ink and my "hole in my body".... Now remember, this was a scout event... Couldnt have cussed her out or anything along those lines.... What would you have done different? Would you have kept your mouth shut too? Should I regret my choice? Thanks all!!

All of my tattoos are hidden under my clothing because I do understand some people dont like them... but, If I wear a tank top.. you can see a few of them... I feel that they are more for me then anyone else.. but I hate the stereo typing...

Answer 1

Well, sometimes you have to go with the group. I suspect that you believed you were outnumbered there. So you were smart, not compounding your problem by shooting off your mouth.

You know that no matter where you go there are going to be people who feel that way. Congratulations, you handled it like an adult.

That woman probably didn't even notice or realize that she was sitting next to somebody with 5 tattoos.

Answer 2

Maybe you could have asked her 'why' she has this opinion about piercings, and let her flounder for an answer- she probably has none.
Then, the 'bad' would have been on her, rather than you; ie, she would have embarassed herself without you trying.
If you want, you could explain to her how you see it, as well- like, why piercing isnt wrong or bad or why there is nothing to fear, and that she should teach her children open-mindedness towards people of all makes and appearances combined with responsibility rather than fear and condescending- it makes for a better stronger person who can think independently and who doesnt judge others or discriminate.

Answer 3

Well, I have 5 tattoos also and plan on getting more and I've had people, especially old folks ask those none-of-your-business type questions like, "Why do y'all mark y'all selves up like that with those tattoos?" "When you get old, aren't they gonna fade and sag?" "That doesn't look good all over women like that." I'd only get these questions and comments while working in public service positions like as cashier because they knew I was on the clock and wouldn't get loud and rude. I still tell them that its my choice and I don't plan on getting them removed. I don't know why people stick their foot so far down their throat by voicing certain opinions because when I wear longsleeves, no one can see my tats either so if they say something negative and I mention I have 5, they have egg on the face. You did right though, I don't think she was worth getting in a shouting match over.

Answer 4

I think the lady was really rude, but I believe you did the right thing, especially if you are going to have to work with her at scouting functions. Of course it might be funny after she sees what a good person you are to make sure she sees one of your tattoos ( if it's in a place that can be seen).

Answer 5

Yeah.. i would of kept my mouth shut. She is just expressing her ignorance about people and you did not need to sink to her level. Just because people have tatoos or piercings does not mean they are bad people. It is like saying all chinese people are bad or people with a wart on their nose are bad. If you did you might of started an argument and you would have been inappropriate in that social situation.That really was not an appropriate thing to say anyway on her part. Like my momma always said, "If you dont have anything to say don't say anything at all. You did all right.

Answer 6

This lady should have kept her opinions to herself. Of course what are they doing talking about that stuff to begin with. Why can't scouts talk about scout stuff??

And remember there are a lot of us that don't get the whole tatoo and body piercing thing. Myself included. But I do keep that opinion to myself. Each to his own.

Answer 7

Heck no. I would have said, "want to see my tattoo's??" Leaving her with her big foot in her mouth. Or you could have said, "I really don't have time for people who judge other's on their choices. As a matter of fact, I myself have tattoo's and piercings so is there anything you would like to say to me?

Answer 8

You know what Mom? I think you could have very politely told her that it was not appropriate to make generalizations about people she doesn't know because there are lots of good people, yourself included who choose those forms of expression. I definately would have said something. Of course I would have said something and I don't even have tatoos or piercings. You did good not cussing, but next time, speak your mind!

Answer 9

Actually I think you handled the situation with grace. However, You could have said something to the effect "Maybe you should get to know someone before you start putting them down". and left it at that. Don't feel bad about your decision to stay quiet. Under the circumstances you did a great job.

Answer 10

I wouldn't of told her that I had tattoos but I would've tried to change her mind even a little bit about people with tattoos and piercings.