Came across an elderly lady today, she was strutting down the street with big funky purple glasses and her hair dyed bright pink. My first thought was "Wow, good for her, that is awesome!" I was proud of her, amazed at her disregard for the public's stereotypical views of the elderly. Her happy swagger brought a smile to my lips.
Unfortunately, the next thoughts took on a more stuck up tone, I began to wonder if I would have the guts to do something like this. Would I say to hell with everyone else and dye my hair whatever shade I felt suited me best and made me feel good or would I succumb to the dictations of society and stick within the norms. I then began to ponder if this was acceptable behavior for someone her age, should she be walking around dolled up like a teenager, hair a shade too loud. Shouldn't she be sticking to the carefully planned out norms that make our society feel comfortable and secure knowing that grandmas are wearing grandma clothes and probably sitting somewhere in the kitchen baking cookies. Having pondered that question on the way home, and having come to the realization that the norms, though occasionally comforting, are not always right. The answer became simple; we should all feel free to dress* ourselves in what ever makes us feel comfortable and happy. If it means dying your hair pink and wearing funky purple glasses, so be it! I just hope that one day I will have the guts to be so free in my own expression.
As a side note: it would seem that pink might just be one of the colours of summer. Walked past three more people with bright pink hair.
* I am using the term dress to also include accessorizing, which also includes the changing of hair colour.
Posted by munin at May 1, 2002 04:00 PM