Fresh Cut

Shedding locks to embrace renewal

I am trying something new: essays. New things scare me because I am the ultimate creature of habit. Writing essays that are not focused on theology, church politics, or the latest New Times’ Bestseller in the category of theology is an invitation that I am extending myself to breathe and to use my writing as a respite from the busyness of church.

I will post these essays every Thursday. The first essay of the month will be open to all subscribers, but the subsequent weeks will be available to paid subscribers. Upgrade your subscription now so you do not miss out.

If you know me, then you know I love spending time in barbershops. I love the smell of the tonics and powders. The banter that occurs between old and new friends. I love the microcosm that exists amid the sound of clippers and scissors. Once you enter the shop, you will encounter a community—people from all walks of life come together. In this melting pot of diversity, conversations flow freely, unburdened by the constraints of rank or status. Here, a CEO may engage in lively banter with a janitor, and a college student might share stories with a retiree. In these interactions, new ideas are born, prejudices are challenged, and empathy is cultivated.

As the barber's skilled hands work their magic, transforming unruly locks into refined styles (just the other day, my son finally had his mullet tamed), a curious alchemy occurs—a change of appearance and perception. The physical act of shedding old hair symbolizes the shedding of the past, letting go of outdated attitudes and beliefs. With each snip, a weight is lifted, allowing fresh thoughts to take root.

There's something cathartic about the process—a catharsis that extends beyond how good we look. As the last strands fall to the floor, so too do the burdens of the mind. Worries and anxieties are left behind, replaced by a sense of lightness and clarity. In this moment of transformation, the outside world fades away, and all that remains is the present—the here and now, ripe with possibility.

A fresh haircut can transform not just how we look but how we see the world around us. It can give us renewed confidence in ourselves and a belief that we can face challenges. With this sense of self-assurance, we approach life with a boldness and resilience that knows no bounds.

But perhaps the most profound effect of a trip to the barbershop is the sense of connection it fosters—a connection not only to oneself but also to others. The barbershop serves as a reminder of our shared humanity in a world that often feels fragmented and divided. The buzz of conversation and the hum of clippers remind us that despite our differences, we are all fundamentally the same—seeking companionship, understanding, and acceptance.

In the sacred space of the barbershop, walls are broken down, and barriers are bridged. The shop is where strangers become friends, and bonds that transcend race, class, and creed are forged. In an age marked by polarization and distrust, the barbershop stands as a beacon of hope—a testament to the power of dialogue, empathy, and human connection.

In conclusion, the barbershop is more than just a place to get a haircut; it is a sanctuary of renewal, an opportunity for transformation, and a centerpoint of community. In its hallowed halls, we find a fresh perspective on life and a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. So, the next time you need a trim and a dose of inspiration, look no further than the local barbershop. The promise of a new beginning lies within its walls—a chance to shed the old and embrace the new, one snip at a time.