There's a lot of controversy when it comes to tattoos. Even though their popularity has been growing and they have become more trendy in recent years, tattoos still have negative connotations to some. Here are some reasons why you shouldn't judge me, or anyone else, for having tattoos.

1. I love my tattoos.

I chose my tattoos and I have them forever. I love all of them and they make me happy. Talking badly about them is rude, just like it would be rude for me to talk badly about someone's new hair that they love (or anything for that matter).

2. They aren't harmful.

Unless they are done improperly, tattoos aren't harmful. A good tattoo artist will use sterile tools and proper technique to ensure there won't be any problems. Having a tattoo that is properly done and taken care of will not harm me in any way.

3. They don't change who I am.

I've always had a love for art, so it should be no surprise that I love the idea of having art on my body forever. Having ink in my skin doesn't change my values or who I am as a person. I'm the same person as I was before I had tattoos.

4. It's my body.

This phrase is blunt, but it's true. I can choose what I do with my body and others don't have a say in it. I know that I make good decisions, so if the worst thing I do with my body is put beautiful art that I love on it, then there shouldn't be a problem.

5. It doesn't affect you.

What colors I put on my skin has absolutely no effect on your life. It doesn't change your day to day activities (or mine) and only impacts me. If you don't like tattoos, then you simply don't have to look at them. If me having a tattoo affects you so greatly that you feel the need to tell me, then there is a problem with the way you live, not the way I do.