Getting my hair cut is a rare occasion. For someone with pin-straight hair, there aren’t too many options. It’s either long and straight or short and straight- not a lot going on. But, on the bright side, my hair is thick, of fine texture, and has kept its natural blonde color. The newly acquired strands of silvery grey actually bring a little sparkle to the palate. And my hair grows; and I mean fast! It was long, long, long. At 55 (and change..56), I knew that the long straight blonde hair of the ’60s was probably in need of a little change itself.
Getting time with a busy stylist is challenging. After a few texts back and forth, she mentioned that new year’s eve at 11:00 am was open, so I grabbed it.
I put on a colorful blouse, and a dab of lipstick (it always helps to try to look one’s best, when the opposite may be the outcome.) Surprisingly, the salon was abuzz with customers. Looking their best for the new year was the plan of the day apparently. I hadn’t noticed the significance of the date until I watched the four inch pieces of hair waft ever so gently to the cool tile floor. I was shedding off the year before my eyes. Each split end was caressed with precision. She snipped, cut, groomed, and massaged. The ends of my hair had accompanied me to Astoria to my daughter’s wedding. In the summer months, these strands had been tossed in the Gulf with my son. As she cut off each piece, I felt a sense of loss.
The blowdryer sent its’ breath screaming across the room. The air swirled and circled above me. Hair was masking my face and all I could see were quick glimpses of myself in the mirror. Like a tornado of time, I was under the spell of change.
Then in an instant, as if the reins of the universe were being pulled, all sounds stopped. A few quick motions of the brush and I was presented with my new self. At first glance, my grandmother’s cheekbones presented themselves. Next, my mother’s grey blue eyes sparkled back at me. My own face came into view, and my hair looked fresh and young. Feelings of loss transformed into pulses of enthusiasm. Newness radiated from me and I was felt empowered to embrace the future.
Change had happened and it couldn’t have come at a better time. Happy 2016! May we all let go of what we’ve been holding for the past year and split into fresh new directions!
What a great day to get a hair cut…I love it! Change? Bring it on.
I’ll bet it looks fabulous. Nicely written piece. Makes me wish I had long hair to cut!
~ Helen
Great timing and a wonderfully visual story! Post a picture please!!!
It is nice to get a new look! Happy 2016
Yes! Happy 2016!!
Beautifully written. The tone resonated with me throughout your experience. I look forward to your next one.
Thank you so much for the encouragement! 🙂