Kendra Jane Berndt
Managing Editor of Content & Archives

Change: it is the only thing that is certain in life (other than death and taxes). So why is it that change is so hard for so many? I am one of those many. I consider myself in the know when it comes to what is hip and cool these days, but in all actuality I struggle everyday with the fast paced, significant changes that are happening in the world around us.

In order for any change to happen, small or big, someone has to start the wheels in motion. I am a firm believer in the idea that everyone can make a difference, and together a lot of small differences can lead to great change. We can all have a voice and make sure that it is heard. This is not to say that everyone will listen to your voice, nor will they like what you have to say, but neither of these reasons should ever stop you from using your voice. That is one of the things I like about the body piercing industry as a whole; there are so many accepted ways to get to the same final product. We may not all agree on how to get there, but for the most part we are all open minded enough to realize that this is the case.

Very recently we were able to get a lot of these different opinions together in the same room at the first ever APP Members Retreat in Georgia. You could see change happening— changes in perspectives, methodologies, self esteem—and know that further change in practices were to come as a result of attendance. I was so fortunate to be a part of that group and those changes.

As an organization the APP stands poised for its next change with the anticipated election of three new Board Members this winter. This year there are a number of outstanding candidates that will be in the running for these positions. We, as a membership, are so fortunate to have the ability to directly drive the changes that shape our organization. So when your ballot arrives, remember you have a voice and it should be heard.

I hope you enjoy Issue 73 of The Point as we take a look at some of the current issues and changes on the horizon for body piercing.