As America progresses, so does the ideals that people hold. What were once taboo are now they are works of art, and that's how it should be. Here are eight benefits of having tattoos:

1. They're a conversation starter.

From lines in the grocery store to parties, I am always getting asked about my tattoos. And while some questions are as simple as "What does it mean?," other questions spark conversation about literature, the Pacific Northwest and photography.

2. They promote worthy artists.

"Where did you go to get it?," is another common question I get. The same artist has done a few of my pieces, and this gives me an opportunity to promote my go-to shop.

3. You gain a sense of body confidence.

"But you're beautiful without tattoos, too!" I know that. But having tattoos adds to my features and makes me proud to show them off.

4. Your body becomes a canvas.

I display art on my walls, so why not on my body, as well? Tattoos can become a form of self-expression. Wearing what you are about on the walls of your body is a great way to do that.

5. They create culture around friendships.

I've gotten tattoos done with friends. Getting a tattoo together creates a certain bond between two people as they lay next to each other on tables with the buzz of the tattoo needle in the background. It also creates friendships and bonding when others simply just have tattoos, too. I've sat down with people who have tattoos and geeked out about each of them for about half an hour before, and there's nothing like it.

6. Most tattoos are unique.

So we all know there are about a billion infinity symbols tattooed out there, and it may not mean a thing -- and that's OK. However, most tattoos are unique to the person who wears them. Tattoos are stories, and you become the storyteller.

7. They preserve memories.

Tattoos hold onto memories of people, places, and events. They hold close important values and influences that stay with you forever.

8. They're personal.

Getting a tattoo doesn't mean you're proving anything to anyone else. You don't have to tell everyone your story. A tattoo doesn't even have to be visible, it just has to be for you, and that's what's so great about it.

Tattoos aren't for everyone, but everyone should appreciate them.