Today, a man approached me to tell me to smile. First off, this is something that many women have touched base on in articles, interviews, and many other things. I didn't want to smile but I did cause I was at work. So I have to be polite no matter what. But what he did next, angered me but again, I am at work, I need my job... so I bit my tongue.

He looked at me and said, "You're prettier without the nose ring." I laughed uncomfortably, not sure what to say, and then he said "Oh and no more tattoos. You're prettier without them too." Now that annoyed me even more. I pride myself on my crazy colored hair, my piercings, and my tattoos. Anyone who knows me will tell you, I am proud of these things.

Now, I smiled and laughed with this man. But after he left, I got him out as quickly as I could. I started thinking where he thought it was okay to even say those things to me. I wasn't here to be pretty for him. I am beautiful regardless of if I have piercings and tattoos or not.

I was a little surprised that he did this. Why does it matter to anyone else if someone has tattoos or piercings? It is their own body, their choice. My family, my friends, and my boyfriend all think I am beautiful even with the nose ring, and my tattoos.

Everyone has their own definition of beautiful. If you don't think I am beautiful with my tattoos and piercings fine. But you didn't have to make me feel as though I am less attractive for having tattoos and piercings.

Now many say I am overreacting and that is the opposite of what I am trying to do. I am trying to make a point that, it isn't okay to say to a stranger - "You'd be prettier without that nose ring, or you'd be prettier without the tattoo." Its rude and uncalled for even if you say "I am not trying to give you a hard time." well sir bad news for you, you ARE giving me a hard time.

I know many girls who will read this, and nod their heads. Cause you have experienced this, and I am sure there are some guys who have experienced something similar to this.

Sadly, we can't change anyone's opinion.

To the man who told me I am prettier without my nose ring and prettier without tattoos, bad news for you, I will be getting more tattoos. I also will be getting more piercings as well. I am pretty with or without them. I am not any less attractive. So please, don't say anything to another girl or guy with a tattoo or piercing. Just keep the opinion of it to yourself.