Just something that has been on my mind lately.

I have read many, many poems on cutting. Read many articles. Witnessed it firsthand. Experienced it myself. Debated different opinions with different people. So I ask you this: what's your stance?

The initial reactions when a person learns of anothers nature to cut automatically seems to be "thats horrible". Or something along those lines. But why? Is it because its different or is it just misunderstood? Seldom do people who are unfamiliar with these actions try to comprehend the reasons behind the deeds.

SO... to get to my point, why is it so bad?

(I know this isnt an all-inclusive list, so feel free to add or debate in the comments section!)

Cutting: 

Creates physical scars
Aids in the release of pain
Makes you feel something when you feel nothing
Reminds you that you are still alive
Can be used for sexual enhancement
May become infected
Does not effect ones ability to use motor functions
May be fatal if done correctly (or incorrectly, depending on application)
May become addicting
May interfere with social, work, and school duties
Is used in other cultures as a right to manhood, religous duties, and self sacrifice

Now compare this partial list to other self inflicted activities that society has to offer like:

Alchohol
Drugs
Sex
Street Racing (I know a little wierd for this list, but I have used this, in combination with just sheer speed in a vehicle, as an outlet)
Eating Disorders

And there is more to this second list.

I ask you this: 

If, like anything, used in moderation and controlled, is cutting really that bad? Is it just a social anxiety that makes us percieve these acts of self mutilation as harmful? Or just a pastime that should be accepted by society? For myself, it was a learning experience. Something of my past that I do not regret, and occasionally still do. A way to bond with other people of the same problems. It actually HELPED me.

Cutting. Wrong? Right? Indifferent?