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First sight of hair on a young lad’s face –
this landmark moment marks the space
where a boy can think he’s now a man.

I preened when ‘beard’ began to show:
shaved once a week, let the top lip grow,
the barber’s final touch my plan . . .

He did my hair the normal way
and trim the ‘tache, I dared to say.
That felt grown-up – and it was fun!

He stood before me with a smile
then raised one eyebrow, actor-style.
So, did you bring it with you, son?