We as a family have never really had to endure odd looks or discrepancies in the work/public place in regards to our dreads...until we moved to Portland. Odd enough due to the fact dreads are a common scene here. We do not carry our locks as a fashion statement, we do not adorn ourselves with beads and jewelry, dyes or anything else. Straight Nazarite in modern day world.
Here we have been discriminated in the work place, stared at in the grocery isles and scoffed in the halls. Whats going on i ask? We be on the west Coast this is very strange. Strange it may be and yet stranger it will become. As time moves forward we approaching a time where we as individuals will be forced to make a decision. Are we 'in' or are we 'out' of Babylon. If we choose out then we are strangers to society and will stick out like a soar thumb. Every strange look, weird comment or exasperated breath I know i have made a impression and am willing to hold that to the highest level possible.
We have dreads as a result of a vow- a vow to our creator and a vow to our mother. To be a walking example of the natural state of being. A life of simplicity and love. Let the strange looks, comments roll on off, we are children of the most high and live to be that example of the possibilities of a different, better life. Any time we choose to separate ourselves from the 'norm' of society (which dreadlocks still are not considered 'normal') we should expect those comments or looks to come our way. The real question is how do we respond. We as dreads need to remember the roots culture and that we all represent each other with in our own actions. Peace Be Unto You.
