I always thought that bartenders were the ones who always knew your name, dispensed advice, and at times, acted as therapists. For me, that's my barber.
Robert has been cutting my hair since I was five. Sure, there were the years when I moved away. And, for other periods of life, my hair was cut by other people. So, even after a few absences, some lasting months while others lasting years, Robert has always picked things up pretty much where we had left it last. He has an uncanny ability to remember conversations and details about your life. And, for a few friends who I haven't seen in years, Robert is our link...he still cuts the hair of a few of my gradeschool classmates.
Some things have changed...Robert now calls me "Doc" when he used to call me JenFu. He's got a little bit more grey in his hair. But, for the most part, things are the same as 2 decades ago. Robert is in the same shop. He still practices solo (he's tried to add a partner here and there but everyone just insists on waiting for Robert). And, he still never fails to enrich my day. There have been a few constants in an otherwise dynamic life and I hope to continue this monthly ritual for many years to come.