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2
The Tattooed Man lowers his Sword
Filed Under Uncategorized
The tattoed man, although a warrior in spirit, has decided to bide his time and lower his sword, but holds a dagger under his cloak. After talking with my lovely wife and hugging my beautiful children, I sent this email to my peers and friends at Ogden High School.
Well, school-wide emails aren’t really my style, but I would like to explain my actions concerning my tattoos. As my wife and mother can attest I can be very hard headed at times. Although I can be stubborn, I’ve never been a fan of conflict nor confrontation—I’m more Martin than Malcolm.
That being said, I believe in standing up for yourself, in being who you are, and in voicing your opinion. I obviously don’t agree with the dress code, frankly it’s asinine, but I’m not in the position to fight the good fight. My pride is not bigger than my family’s welfare. So, under extreme protest, I will cover my tattoos, but please realize that under those sleeves smolders discontent. Please recognize that I am no sheep baaing compliance; I am a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
So let my long sleeves be a symbol, a symbol of oppression, close-mindedness, and everything education is not.
Sincerely,
Mark Johnson
Nice Mark! Sucks you had to bow out, but your family’s more important than your tattoos so I understand. Good letter though. They know you didn’t just kow tow to them like many would.
Hello Mr. Johnson,
I was a student of yours in the past and I believe you were one of the best teachers I have ever encountered. You have many qualities that ever teacher needs to call themselves a teacher. You are very knowledgeable about the subjects you teach and care about your students. Any school would be proud to have you on their faculty! I’m not sure who started this whole mess but I strongly disagree! Keep your head high and know that me and my graduating class are behind you 100% !!! Thanks for being a great teacher
Dear Mark,
I was listening this morning on X96 about your “situation”. Personally, I’m not a fan of tatoos but I’m a very big fan and supporter of freedom and speaking up when rights are trampled. I’m not native to this state. I have been stung by the “do it our way” mentality here more than a few times. Its unfortunate. But I would like to lend my moral support to you in your trouble with Ogden High. Please feel to contact me from my website if you’d like. SL
Hey Mark!!! I am a student at Northridge High and your wife has been teaching me for two years. I’ve heard a lot about you and it seems like you’re a very cool person. I’ve been keeping up with your situation as best I can and I think it’s bull what they’re doing. I’m glad you can man up and realize when fighting it just isn’t worth it and I respect you for that. I wish to have a few tattoos when I can get them, and reading stuff like this inspires me a lot. It shows that, while most of humanity has fallen to compliance and sheepism, there are still the strong few who have pride and wisdom.
PS – I think the idea of getting your tattoos replicated on a shirt is an awesome idea. Just saying.