Messenger photo by Joe Duty

What some people consider an insult, others are able to turn into a reflection of pride.

Many people were found staring in awe at the destruction of the grass fire raging near Paradise last Wednesday. Our roaming photographer found this man with the term “Hillbilly” tattooed onto his lower back. He carried the label with pride, etched permanently into flesh.

While phrases and terms are constantly invented to put people down, some are strong enough to turn those words upside down, transforming a derogatory word into one of inspiration and pride in one’s self and heritage.