Timothy 2:Tattoo

I work at a public pool in a very conservative Bible Belt town. As such, most of our customers are religious. They’re also mostly very kind, small-town folk. On this day, a customer in his forties or fifties has just finished paying for his family when he notices a small tattoo I have on my wrist: “2:22” in black font, taken from the pages of a Harry Potter book.

It’s worth noting that I am a Christian myself, but I don’t really go to church anymore and I am not as religious as I used to be, mostly due to my more liberal views on the world.

A customer is staring at my wrist with visible distaste.

Customer: “What does ‘2:22’ mean?”

I am assuming he’s confused about the very recognizable font.

Me: “Oh, it’s a reference to 2 Timothy 2:22. I just chose the page numbers from my favorite book series as the font.”

He immediately changes his posture to a very rigid stance.

Customer: “Hmph, really? And what is that verse?”

I’m sighing internally, but I quote the verse, which essentially boils down to, “Surround yourself with good people and be careful what you chase.” I got this particular verse because of some very personal things I struggled with. It’s obvious the man did not expect me to have the verse memorized, so he changes tactics.

Customer: “And what does that mean? It obviously must be important for you to tattoo God’s word on your body.”

Me: “Actually, the meaning is pretty personal.” *Awkward silence* “So… have a nice day.”

Customer: *Sneers* “Right. As usual, you kids don’t even know what the Bible means anymore! Well, for your information, that verse refers to purity of heart and mind—”

Me: “Sir? With all due respect, I’m not interested in your opinions about my tattoos, and there is a line forming behind you. Please keep moving, and have a great time at our pool.”

I get that a lot of older people have a problem with tattoos, but who in their right mind thinks it’s okay to interrogate a total stranger and then preach at them about their OWN body?