I'm just back from my local barber shop where I "got my ears lowered" (as my Dad used to say). I've been visiting various barber shops since I was five. My Dad took me to Buzzy's at that age for my first experience with electric clippers being placed against my head. I would have panicked if it wasn't for his constant eye-contact and head-nodding!
Until I was sixteen, I always went in my Dad's company. It was a manly experience as I sat among the men there and listened in on their conversations. When inappropriate language was occasionally used (particularly by Buzzy), I would look at my Dad and he would smile at me. I knew that WE didn't use that kind of language (including SOB).
Over the years, I've observed that the barber shop is a good place to get a gauge on society and the culture. Many barbers seem to enjoy talking and expressing their opinions as they cut. It's a place where a free forum of ideas and opinions are expressed openly - without judgment. Occasionally, opinions differ and discussions get louder and more animated. But most of the time, there is an open atmosphere where opinions are expressed and usually appreciated.
I'm not one to frequent bars, but I suspect they might be another place where opinions are freely exchanged. Like many of you, I've heard that bars are a place where "Sometimes you want to go. Where everybody knows your name, and they're always glad you came. You wanna be where you can see, our troubles are all the same." [Cheers theme song; lyrics by Gary Portnoy and Judy Hart Angelo]
How I've longed through the years that the church could be the same...
Actually, I've rarely entered into the barber shop dialogues. Consider it a result of my introvert nature. There have been times that I have sat through an entire haircut without speaking a word. But, I listen! And occasionally I agree or insert a thought of my own.
One thing is certain with my present barber shop - you will get a straightforward assessment of current affairs: local and national. My barber is NOT an introvert! He does an amazing job of cutting hair while manifesting his loquacious nature at the same time! I can't say I love dropping $16 each time I visit, but in the long run the haircut and entertainment are worth it!
Today, I walked in with no special expectations. If I had thought about it ahead, I would have probably expected a diatribe about the unusually warm weather we've been experiencing for the last two weeks (of September). I would have been wrong.
No, the topic for my entire haircut was the NFL. Opinions didn't vary; there was unanimity! The guys in the shop (mostly age 50+) were all united in their disdain for the league, its coaches and its players. Even Lebron James took a beating in the shop today for his recent foray into the topic (unusual for an icon in this area).
The anger for the protest against the flag and anthem was heated. Stories were told of tickets being burned and a universal switch to college football on Saturdays. Distant Super Bowl parties are being considered for a different day than the Super Bowl with the focus being on the food and just being together.
To be honest, I was caught unaware. I figured the heat had died down since Sunday. Apparently not!
I've been caught up in the fray as well. Sunday was a really down day for me, and it had nothing to do with the Steeler's loss. It's terribly discouraging to observe the distress in our country over this issue. Can we agree that it's painful to see such a deep divide developing?
I once wrote a blog about my earliest memory. It was of my father taking me to a Veteran's Day parade in upper Beaver Falls. I recall him holding me in his arms (I think I was 3) and teaching me to take my hat off when the American flag went by (at that time, it only had forty-eight stars on it). :-)
Consequently, respect for the flag (and our military and our country) is a very high value for me!
In my hours of reading and reflection on the present turmoil, however, I am coming to realize that for some people (particularly African Americans) their highest value may be "freedom and justice for all". Because this value is so high, they choose to protest in a way that violates my highest value (respect for the flag, veterans and country).
End result: we are all conflicted!
I haven't resolved this issue for myself and don't pretend to be a teacher or guide for others. However, I am trying to respond with an open mind and respect for my fellow citizens. I'm trying to understand. I'm praying for God to bring us to a place where we can unite without threats and certainly without violence! I hope you'll do the same.
