[MadIvan]

Does EVERYONE have some sort of fringe group, accompanied by a gripe?

Hitherto I wasn't even aware I was part of a fringe group. ;)

But I guess I am now - I have a beard, and I'm proud!

Regards, Ivan

[Paul Atreides]

I wasn't referring to you as being a fringe group, just for having a beard. It seems that every time we turn around, there is some group, claiming to speak for everyone, being offended or worried over something.

FWIW, I used to have a beard, as well.

[wimpycat]

Hey, I'm a fan of ZZ Top and all, but would buy a sandwich from them? Hell no, not without a hairnet!

[Happygal]

Ooo errr, nothing like a man with facial hair.
So much testosterone ;-)

[duckbutt]

In the 20+ years I've known my hubby, he's only shaved his beard off twice -- both for job interviews. Once he got the job(s), he grew the beard back. Good thing, too......he looked too much like his sister when he didn't have the beard. I told him he had to grow it back ASAP as kissing him was like kissing his sister...too wierd.......

[doug from upland]

It's part of my identity. I've had a beard since 1972.