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Have to admit I was appalled the first time I heard this. Seems when someone does not know a judge or member of the clergy that can  perform their wedding, the first thing they consider is appearance.

What about credentials? Experience? Sincerity? Articulation? Reputation? None of these matter more than what the minister looks like. Had to think hard and long before I could actually agree with it.

One might overlook appearance from time to time. No hair, deep wrinkles, and thick glasses might not be a deal breaker. However, stray eyebrows, bad breath or a suit covered with cat hair is not what a couple wants to experience during their marriage celebration. A Stonebridge Manor Wedding Consultant once asked me, "Do all ministers have dandruff?" Straining my peripheral vision catching a glimpse of my shoulder I replied, "No."

Some time ago Gwen's physician referred her to an associate to consult for her back pain. The physician mentioned that the associate was a little bit different than most, which did not prepare her for the appointment. Imagine her surprise to meet the new doctor in Birkenstocks, polyester capris that did not contain her mass, and matted hair flying in every direction. The doctor, appearing very unprofessional, did not exude confidence.

VESTIS VIRUM REDDIT. "Clothes make the man," was authoritatively orated by Marcus Fabius Quintillianus not quite 2000 years ago. With respect to Mr. Eddie Fischer, I learned this lesson first in 7th Grade Latin Class, that appearance means everything.

Now that wrinkles (furrows) are finding a permanent place on my face, my hair is turning white, and my eyes are not as good as they used to be, I try to pay attention to my appearance in earnest. My clothes fit, I still don't have dandruff and I am neurotic about those stray nose and ear hairs.

So, why did I cut my hair? I have applied my hair-spray helmet thousands and thousands of times so my hair would not wreck a couple's wedding photo. A few weeks back I had the epiphany that if I would just buzz my hair I could save thousands on hair spray and could drive down the freeway with my windows open.

Please help me out if you see something out of place on me (that I can or should do something about).