Long project, long hair

I appreciate a journey. Streaks and patterns are satisfying endeavors. Some of them are even just for fun.

Last year, on a you-should-do-this-dad suggestion from my daughter, I started growing out my hair. I had never sported long hair, so this would be new territory. It turned out to be an entertaining, long-term project.

After about sixteen months — with a few minor trims along the way and having achieved my goal — I decided to have my hair cut shorter again.

I noticed two particular questions from friends, family, and colleagues. The first curious question surfaced a year ago: “What are you doing?” (That is, “How long are you going to let it grow?”)

The second curious question was prompted by my recent haircut: “What did you do?” (That is, “Why did you get it cut?”)

People like to know what’s happening. Generally, they expect things to stay just about the same. And when gradual change begins to happen, they take note. Hmm. What’s happening here? And when drastic change happens, they take note as well. OMG. What just happened?

There are so many areas where we cling to the status quo. But often, we delight in seeing change and trying to figure out what’s going on.