DEAR ANNIE: I am 19 years old and dating "Roger." Last night, I asked him to tell me about his sexual history. I decided there should be no secrets between us. Actually, I assumed he didn't have much previous experience. I am friends with a girl he dated and Roger had told me they were not close and she meant nothing to him.

Here's the problem. My father has threatened to disown me if I get a tattoo. My mother cries every time I bring up the subject, and my older brother says no decent guy would ever be attracted to a girl with a tattoo. I am not talking about snakes running up my arms and vines on my legs. My tattoo would be small and discreet, and no one would see it unless I wanted them to. How can I persuade my family to let me do this?-

DEAR BARE SKIN: You are 18 years old and do not need your parents' permission to get a tattoo. While a small, half-hidden angel should not create an uproar, your family is concerned you might be sorry later. Laser surgery can remove most tattoos, but the process can be both painful and time-consuming. Tattoos should be considered permanent.