Remember that old saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover”? It’s a good reminder, especially when it comes to parenting.
Just because a parent might not look like what we typically expect, it doesn’t mean they’re bad at doing their job. Take Richard Huff, for example. People look at his tattooed face and jump to conclusions, but his wife has shared a story that might surprise you.
Tattoos are a way for many people to express themselves, a form of art and self-expression that’s quite personal. Richard, who is 51, has chosen this path with over 240 tattoos on his body. He calls himself an “ink addict” and is a proud father and husband.
Richard Huff, at 51, says his family is just like any other.
Despite his reassurance, he often faces criticism online from strangers who judge him for his looks.
“It started as a kind of addiction,” Richard explained. “I began with my legs and kept going.” Today, 85% of his body is covered in tattoos, including his children’s names and even his daughter’s lips.
“My goal is to have 100% of my body covered in tattoos, hopefully in the next four years,” he shared. “For some reason, whether it’s the pain or the artwork, it just fascinates me.”
Having so many tattoos comes with its own challenges. Even kids at his children’s school have found his appearance intimidating.
His daughter once shared, “They say it’s a bit scary, but I tell them, ‘No, my dad isn’t scary; he’s good with tattoos.’”
Even Richard’s wife, Marita, admitted she was initially scared when they first met. “I judged him based on his looks,” she said, “but once I got to know him, I realized he has a big heart.”
Through her blog, Marita often writes about how much Richard cares for his family. She praises his devotion to his role as a husband and father.
Richard also embraces being a stepfather to Marita’s children from previous marriages. “I’m part of the PTA and attend all my kids’ events,” he added.
Still, despite all this, criticism comes Richard’s way.
Some people comment, “I’m not against tattoos, but why would he put them on his face?” However, defenders have chimed in, too, saying, “He likes his face tattoos and he’s a good father. Let him be.”
Richard handles these comments firmly: “If someone needs to make negative comments, perhaps there’s something wrong in their own life that causes them to judge others.” Adding, “We are happy as a family, and that’s what matters most to us.”
Richard emphasizes that regardless of any disagreements with his family, his love for them remains strong.
He explained, “Having tattoos doesn’t frighten my kids, nor does it make me a bad father. It offers my children a different perspective on life.”
Many who see Richard without his tattoos wouldn’t recognize the kind and loving father that his family cherishes.
Richard Huff truly shows that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.
