My writing group has something called Inktober where a prompt is given for each day. Here is my first entry.
Mustache (Inktober 2025, #1) “Outgrowing My MUSTACHE”
I used to have a mustache once, but it was preceded and followed by a goatee, and now — there is none. I suppose the growing of it was one of both convenience and chivalry. In terms of convenience there is that notion that not having to shave is less irritating and makes things easier. Well, that is not the case. Anyone who grows a beard of any sort will soon discover that it requires maintenance no less than an automobile. In terms of chivalry, that’s just a fancy name for macho or manly. Every teenage boy can recall the peach fuzz on his face which he wished would grow, and now it finally does! The only problem is that now — it does grow, unrelentingly.
I’ve seen some quite impressive mustaches before, none that I have ever possessed. Some people are hard to imagine without one. There is a movie star or two that people may call to mind and identify them purely by their facial hair. I know an electrician whose whole business is framed after his beard. But I’ve never met anyone that has framed his business and identity after his clean face. Perhaps such a thing is out there (I am sure it is, we are a diverse humanity), but I just haven’t seen or heard of such an escapade.
My most memorable times with my mustache are that of shaving it. There is nothing like the clean result that intuitively makes me smile for days after carrying that barnacle on my face. I feel like the ocean waves have come and washed me clean and bright! Not to mention, I find myself to feel professional; not sure at what, but nevertheless — professional.
The military agrees, as do most businesses. A famed pastor, Alistair Begg had a no beard policy. Yes, military does allow for a neatly trimmed mustache, but I am not sure I really consider that a mustache. I mean there are mustaches, and there are MUSTACHES! In my opinion the latter only deserves the title. When Begg spoke in a question and answer to pastors as to why he did not permit them on his staff, one of the reasons was that it changes all the time. One day you have this shape, then another, and a soul patch, etc.
Some may argue the beard is particularly godly and a shame not to have. There is actually Scripture that could be employed, but of course — proof texts are not always amiable to the subject. And 17th century hair styles are of no little consequence, let alone 4000 B.C. Besides, we don’t know if Adam wore a beard or not. It would be a matter of assumption on either side of the equation. What we do know is that if he did, we might be suspect to say it didn’t help him. And if he did not, we might say he needs one. And the whole thing would become just weird in terms of making an outward show of godliness one way or another.
So, I find it best to give the freedom. If you want a mustache, carry on with one — just make sure it’s a real MUSTACHE! (preference of course) And in terms of those who come clean like myself at the present time of sanctification. Well, be not ashamed. You are no longer in a place of history where the symbol is one of embarrassment to not grow a beard or mustache. For some, it might be more embarrassing to see how unsubstantial their facial hair is. I mean no offense. I simply say — there is no shame in no mustache. You might say, I’ve outgrown mine.
I thought there was something different about you today!