Ritch

I am a dedicated, permanent beard grower.

Comments:
A mate (and a few of his brothers), who is "first-Australian" (aboriginal), grew his years ago. It was / still is awesome; he's kept it ever since. I always really liked vintage beards and American confederate beards / 19th century American beards when younger -- optimum masculine identity (dignity with strength). After the first world war, America seems to have set the shaved-face look which took to global "vogue" for the last 90+ years; why I can't understand. It's about time global (western-affluenced) society grew up and accepted stock male identity / masculinity. What is (modern) male identity conventionalism. Be yourself.

How do I feel about my beard? When I was younger, I used to think it was pretty ugly: sparse scraggly blonde fluff on fair skin -- nothing like my mate's! But I persevered 'til I got "it" right ~ for the next 50+ years. The color has also changed, from blonde to: blonde soul patch + "red" mustache + dark goatee and sides. I like it! It has taken years to know by "chance" how to groom. I have no male forebears who grew beards for examples. Now, mates from the next generations are inspired by the resurgence of decent beards and are looking for advice. I tell them to come to this web site and its links as a start for ideas. I have been successfully working in many environments -- white as well as blue collar -- and my presentation is easily welcomed. I am glad I look "distinguished" as opposed to a "child" (I think there must be something wrong with those women who need a "child's face" present all the time).