Midwest Mary

Why is it that when we sit in the hairdresser chair we spew out our deepest secrets? Unlike the dental hygeintist who does all the talking while our mouth is literally in her hands, the words flow easily with our hairdresser. We clients babble on and on about all types of things we don’t even discuss with our closest friends. It’s as if when we sit down we hit a button that opens up the flood gates and releases our every thought.

Most hairdressers are underappreciated and underpaid. They should get therapists’ pay. It may feel as if we already pay that price but if you deduct the products and business expenses and add in their ongoing education and certifications in addition to experience, their hourly wage really isn’t very high.

Teresa has cut and colored my hair for more than twenty years. We talk about our families, work, and friends, and our deepest worries and joys. I really love and care about her and yet we’ve never visited each other’s home, attended a family party, or shared coffee outside the shop.

My mother-in-law used to say a good haircut is priceless. It makes you look good every day for a month or more. I am very lucky Teresa does this for me and at such a reasonable rate.

Thank you, Teresa, and also sweet Sydney who straightens my hair, for your expertise and friendship.

©2012, Mary K. Doyle

(Photo: Updo by Teresa for my daughter’s wedding.)