Q: “My dad doesn’t like tattoos, but I just got one. How do I break the news without starting a fight?” – Rori
A: Overall: Your body, your choice. If you’re old enough to legally get a tattoo, you know what you want, and you recognize its permanence, why not get tattoos? Nobody should judge you for that, least of all your family. If your financial situation is stable and solid and it’s what you know you want to do, beyond a shadow of a doubt, it is objectively fine. Lots of people dislike tattoos – but that’s their personal decision to not have any ink. The trope of older generations shaming people for their tattoos is an outdated mindset, of which the boundaries are breaking. I was terrified to show my tattoos around my family. Honestly – does it really matter what they think? It’s not like you can undo it very easily. They should respect your personal authority; you are an autonomous decision-maker for yourself. But you have several options available to you: You can wait until he notices it one day, you can hide it forever, or you can rip off the bandage and tell him about it outright. Alternatively, my method is usually sending a text saying, “I got another tattoo,” and then waiting a few days for him to cool down before I see him in person (not my best strategy). A face-to-face confession is the most courageous option and probably the best route, but remember that it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks as long as you like it. Obviously, stay away from blatantly offensive tattoo content, of course. Show him how happy you are with it and that it was a decision you were ready to make. He will get used to it, after a while!
Q: “If I know someone who I feel needs some kind of treatment or therapy, how do I tell them? I want them to get help, and I don’t want it to ruin our relationship.” – Stephanie
A: It’s next to impossible to force someone to get help, so, no matter what, you’ll have to be gentle with it. One can only truly be helped if they want to be helped. Bringing up any issues you may have can be risky and stressful on both parties and could very well crack your relationship. You can love someone into realizing that they have an issue that requires some type of professional assistance. Speak to them softly without force or ultimatums. Ask them how they plan to cope or navigate their issue. You can plant the idea of getting help so that they begin to think about it, but they have to recognize the issue and understand their needs themselves. It’s certainly a tricky circumstance, but if nothing else, make sure this person feels loved and supported.
Q: “I want to show my friends Lake Nona. They just came from out of town, and I’m SO excited to see them. What should I do with them for a fun day out?” – Alex
A: There’s something for everyone here. Introverted, extroverted, inverted, whatever you are – we’ve got it all. Plan a spunky photo shoot around all the art pieces and sculptures in Town Center, have a bar crawl among our best local joints, or head to Drive Shack or USTA for some rejuvenating physical activity. We know one thing for certain: Lake Nona has some good food. Scarf down some good old Canvas breakfast and throw on your swimsuits for a race on Nona Adventure Park’s Aqua Park/Obstacle Course. Our brand new Goodwill is sure to have some rich, thrifty finds for you and your friends. On the outskirts of Lake Nona is prime Florida hiking spot Split Oak for the landlubbers. Whatever you choose to do with your group, promise me you’ll end it with a hearty hunk of carrot cake from Nona Blue at the end. The Nonahood welcomes you and your friends with open, socially-distanced arms!
