Reincarnation. A rebirth of sorts. Over the weekend, I got to reinvent myself, on the outside anyway, as I once again shaved my head rather than deal with the daily fall out. I know full well that what’s on the inside won’t change much except for that initial period of anxiety and awkwardness as I go out in public. The butterflies will pass in short order. Been there, done that, no t-shirt but lots of hats and bandanas.

The change in appearance presents its’ own opportunities. I’ll be treated different over nothing more than a really ‘short’ hair cut. Some will avoid me, not knowing what to say while others will be compelled to offer kind words of support for a non-existent malady . Strangers will gawk, speaking in whispers which are far too loud not to be over heard…small children will be whisked away or hushed as they ask questions aloud as their innocence knows only honesty.

Those with their heads hidden beneath scarves, skullies or bandanas, their eyes diverted from most, will look over at me and smile as if to welcome a brother in arms. Their struggle is different than my own but I will smile back nevertheless in the hopes that they will find comfort in the perception of a kindred spirit. Strength in numbers as it were as only a few daring souls choose to traverse the shadows alone.

So the question remains as to which façade will I adopt: shy and aloof, strong yet silent, overly aggressive and defensive toward those who would offer comments regarding my appearance. No. None of that is me. After all, why be anything other than the person I am. Perhaps the other personas may sneak out from time to time. After all, I’m not perfect. I’m only one man trying to make his way through this world like everyone else…perhaps with a bit less hair but little different otherwise.