I came across the definitive answer from the definitive advice-giver
:
DEAR ABBY: I am a 26-year-old, educated, professional woman. I met an attractive man of 36 at a wedding reception. We hit it off instantly -- danced together, joked, laughed, etc.
We have had several casual dates since, which all seemed to go well. He invited me to a dinner dance at his country club. After removing my wrap, he noticed a small tattoo on my shoulder and made a rude comment. Abby, he more than implied that tattoos are not acceptable in polite society and are associated with gangs, drunken sailors and other "lowlifes"! The evening did NOT go well, and I haven't heard from him since.
How can I explain to him that tasteful, artistic tattoos are in fashion and in no way diminish one's character? I really like him and would like to pursue a relationship. He doesn't return my calls or my e-mails. I am heartsick and think of him daily. What's your advice? -- LONELY IN ATLANTA
DEAR LONELY: While this "gentleman" may not like tattoos, he should be aware that they are now very common and are worn by about a third of the population, from what I'm told -- including doctors, lawyers, accountants and movie stars. My advice is to forget about a romance with him. From his perspective your relationship was only skin deep.