I have tattoos & piercings and I am not a 'dirt bag'

To The Daily Sun,

“Here’s an idea. Convert all those self storage units into tiny apartments for the losers who show up for job interviews with rings in their noses and lips, tattoos on their faces wearing death metal T-shirts and flip flops, who wonder why no one wants to hire them.” — From the Jan. 7 online comment section, in my response to my last letter.

What a fantastically closed-minded view! Thank you for sharing! One, that was not my point and I’m so sorry you missed it yet again and took away only what you cared to. Two, not everyone is a “dirt bag” because he/she has tattoos, piercings, or wears heavy metal T-shirts — period. I had my ears pierced three times, I have tattoos, and I listen to heavy rock as well — so I guess I’m a 51 year-old dirt bag as well, according to your “view.” And, many people wear what they have and try to do the best they can with their attire to these interviews. You don’t know their circumstances. Not all have the luxury you may have with nice clothes and suits or the ability to buy some. Perhaps you could open a charity shop with donated clothes to help them land the job instead of making fun of them. They have similar programs in Massachusetts, perhaps you can look them up.

I have worked many years in the dental field as both assistant and front desk and I have worked with some very high-end clients. I can assure you my earrings, tattoos, and choice of music was never an issue for past and present employments. If you’re simply hiring for “looks,” then many will miss the opportunity for what could possibly be a great employee. Remember, don’t judge a book by its cover.

I had a manager at an office I worked in who had "sleeves" on both arms, I believe, and you would have never known. He was impeccably dressed every day. I recently worked with a fantastic dental assistant who had tattoos and it never hindered her ability to give 100 percent every single day at her job. I have my hair done by a beautiful hairdresser who has a nose ring and she owns her own shop. Sometimes we are all too quick to judge others in our lives, instead of giving many a chance they may very well deserve.

“Don’t judge someone because they sin differently than you” — Unknown

Denise C. Burke

Gilford