new thread
OKCdude/Steve's thread, below, has brought to light an important point that arises here on the MLHH from time to time. Steve, for what it's worth, thank you for being honest and courteous enough to let us know of your original intentions to leave the MLHH, rather than to simply fade away. Your doing so sparked an important discussion which, no doubt, provided a valuable reminder to many people who participate in this great community. I'm glad to know you'll be sticking around.
I was also especially touched by Walter's comment, regarding what the MLHH community has meant to him over the years, and I would like to echo many of his sentiments. I first "un-lurked" here on February 26th, 2007. Although I once had long hair in the past, in the 6 years that I have belonged to this community, I have yet to officially rejoin the ranks of the longhaired myself, a handful of attempts notwithstanding. I'm back to full-on "really shaggy" status as of now though, so we'll see. I know that I will always be able to count on you for sound advice and heartfelt encouragement, and that when the day comes that I finally post that picture of a long-haired me, you'll be there with open arms. Despite the lack of truly long tresses on my own head though, this is the only place in cyberspace that I have ever felt comfortable referring to as "my" online community. My two older sons, aged 12 and 5, both have long hair, and it's been my pleasure to encourage other parents to allow their boys the freedom to choose their own hair length and to foster their children's genuine self-expression. I have forged friendships here that extend beyond the MLHH. The people here have shared in each others triumphs and tragedies... we've been there for each other through the births of children and the deaths of loved ones, through illnesses and times of good fortune; we've seen each other lose weight, graduate from high school and college, get hired, fired, and retire from careers after decades of hard work, good service to others, and contributions to society. We steer each other towards movies and music that we think might be enjoyed by others. We share information about vitamins, food, and types of exercise that we think might benefit others. All of this, because we genuinely CARE about each other here.
As stated on the FAQ page, the MLHH is a forum "for posting about long hair on men." Indeed it is, but it is also so much more than that, thanks to all of you, the wonderful people who comprise this community.
Happy Monday, my friends!
One Love,
Validus
Hello Validus: Your word seem very heartfelt. I enjoyed your post very much, I have short hair as I work in the health care field, supplies really not dealing with direct patienct contact. You look very handsome and I'm sure your longer hair will just add to your good looks. Take care. Tom (Hairboy) Cincinnati
Hi Tom,
Thanks for the compliments. Maybe when the time is right, you could give long hair a try as well, and see if your employer has an issue with it. The world of health care actually seems to be more accepting than many other professional fields, in my experience.
Take care,
Val
Val,
You have such a way with words! I almost feel like your post should be linked to in the FAQ or Links section!
This has been an amazing place of support, inspiration and friendship. No matter whether we're longtime longhairs, newbies or just supporters we can gather here and enjoy the camaraderie.
I'm happy to hear your hair is shaggy. It's a good first step, my friend. I know the day will come when you post that picture of the longhaired you and it will be met with a thunderous online ovation!
Jason
Thanks, Jason. As you know, you're one of my personal "hair-oes" (and one heck of a cool guy, to boot!). Your inspiration and encouragement are much-appreciated.
--Val
Just wanted to echo what you already said. And thank you for assuring me that I should stick around, by the way. It is a good group to be identified with. When I read about half the posts that were left for me, I felt like I had half-way been affirmed and half-way sent to the principal's office, but it all came out in the wash, so to speak. It all boils down to the fact that we all have to learn to affirm, respect, and value the people around us. I, personally, am learning to do that more each day.
Steve
Well said! Keep on keepin' on, bro.
--Val
Hi Validus,
You have a gift in your ability to clearly communicate ideas and aspirations so eloquently, I love reading your posts!! Also fun to read that you are going through the "shaggy" stage -- believe it or not, sometimes I even miss that stage myself!
You'll be happy to know that you are not alone in going through the experience of growing then cutting, growing then cutting... When I left home at age 18, I succeeded in growing to a long-ISH length; but never succeeded to grow it to ponytail length until my 40th birthday. That means it took me a total of 22 years to build up the courage to finally grow my hair out (LOL).
That's all ancient history, of course, because I turned 40 in 1993 -- long before MLHH even existed!
My point in saying all of the above goble-dee-goop is this: your presence here is greatly appreciated, regardless of whatever hair length you have achieved (although I greatly look forward to seeing pics of your longer hair if you do grow it looooong)!!
Take Care,
Ken in San Francisco
Hey Ken,
I have to admit both you and Val are such great orators you could do it for a living:) Both of you have summed up clearly what the mlhh is all about.This forum is truly a retreat for me as I know of no others like it.I appreciate all our loyal users for their participation here. As you know I've made many friends here and actually met quite a few in person:) Anyway I'm always happy to see new people find us and become part of the community. Long live the mlhh!Cheers
Mârk
Thanks, Mark! You're one of the best examples of just what makes the MLHH great, and have a great knack for combining honesty with kindness.
--Val
Thank you for your kind words, inspiring example, and always-appreciated "goble-dee-goop!" I can't imagine the MLHH without you, Ken.
--Val
This is the best community I know on the internet, although it's about hair we can talk about everything and form great friendships. Although I don't have long hair atm and don't plan to grow it, I still hang around because it's such a great community. If I can help somebody with my own experience in growing longhair it's worth sticking around and I also like to keep up with everyone here!
Well said, my friend! You're one of those people who will always be a "longhair" on some level, and it's been a pleasure to share in your journey and your world-traveling adventures.
--Val
Thanks, David... I know you know what I mean! You certainly qualify as an important facet of the heart and soul of the MLHH!
--Val
Hi Val,
Wow what an excellent post! I always like reading your posts because of your excellent wordsmithing. I hope to see you with long hair again in the future. I would also love to see a pic of your past long hair. I bet it was just spectacular! Hope your sons' hair is growing nicely. Thanks again for such a nice post! Take care of yourself and your family my friend! And yes, One Love!
Ted
Thanks for the kind words, Ted. I'll have to post an update at some point in the near future, and a pic of my sons, as well. Best wishes to you and yours!
--Val