Fear over holding rats

i got bit by a rat when i was around 12, and it was nasty. ever since then ive hated all rodents, and have only ever grabbed them by the tail. that all changed this week though, i had an un-eaten feeder mouse for a few days, and i just picked it up and put in on my arm, and it was the cutest, sweetest little thing lol. it just kinda crawled all over and checked me out, although it did nibble on my hair for a second, but now im really not scared of the idea of rats. if your holding it by the tail, it seems really scary like it'll bite you first chance it gets, but if you just say screw it and put it on your arm, i think you'll be pleasently surprised. just remember, they will pee and poo on you whenever they want lol