I've been threatening for a month that our next topic is that of tattoos, but before we dive into it I have a great final letter on how to improve your outlook on life. Perhaps the reader's husband was inspired by a certain Christmas movie, but in any case this is a project that could inspire feelings of gratitude in your family over and over again. Here is what she wrote:

We have struggled financially and with health problems throughout our marriage, and it sometimes creates feelings of discouragement and hardship.  One year my talented husband created a priceless gift for us by making a musical slideshow of our family photos and titling it, "Our Wonderful Life." As we watched our dating, courtship, wedding and family it brought such feelings of gratitude for our many blessings and helped us have a paradigm shift to realize how rich we are in eternal matters.

Colorado Reader

That's such a terrific idea, Colorado , that I'm sure it will inspire many to “go thou and do likewise.” In fact, readers, if you get started now, you may be able to finish your own family presentation to make a memorable gift for Valentine's Day.

Now for the promised new topic. I'll let the reader present the question in her own words:

I have been inactive for a while.  The Lord has brought me to the point where I am ready to dive back into activity and serve again, but I have one question/problem.  I have visible tattoos.  When I run into someone from my ward in the community, we smile and small talk until they see the tattoos, and then they are uncomfortable and can't seem to get away fast enough. 

I am wondering if there are others out there who have experience with this and can give me advice on how to help those around me be comfortable with this.  Removing them is financially not an option right now.

Tattooed Sister

Thanks for writing in, Tattooed. As you can imagine, I have strong feelings on this issue — but this is the readers' column, not mine. The readers get to speak first, and then I may chime in if someone else hasn't already said what I'm thinking better than I could write it (which is usually what happens).

Readers, the forum is yours. Please send your advice for Tattooed Sister to meridianmagazine@aol.com . Put something in the subject line to tell me your letter isn't spam. We'll publish the first responses next Monday. And when you write, be sure to include your full name, city and state or province. (If you'd rather be semi-anonymous, sign your name as “A Reader from Michigan,” or “Sandy from Timbuktu.” The important thing is that we hear from you.)

Until next time — Kathy

Bill Cosby