The Arrogance of an Ex-Alcoholic.

The look I am going for is a combination of Italian racecar driver and grunge band front man.

When I search the internet for styling tips, I inevitably come across pictures of Brad Pitt when he wore his hair long, and I love that look. The problem is, I’m a 46-year-old man with dark circles under my eyes carrying about 20 extra pounds. I have thinning hair (not receding, thinning-can you tell I’m sensitive about that one?), and it turns out I don’t have Brad Pitt’s face.

But still, I cling to the persona I desire because that’s the me that I want to project to the world.

I drive a Jeep Wrangler and keep the top down, even in the winter. I taught all four of my kids to ride bikes, ski, and now I’m teaching them to drive. It’s less for my satisfaction and more because I’m proud of my role in their lives. I never drink soda, I never buy clothes, and I cut my grass with a reel mower even though a gas or electric mower would do a better job.

These are the traits that make up who I am-the man I want the world to see. My pride and self-esteem are derived in part from this persona, so these traits and characteristics are foundational and important to me.

Sobering Identity