It’s a small thing but a necessity. Getting a haircut. Who can do it? Where do I go? It was in my mind to look for another Caucasian woman with short hair and ask her who does hers. Then, I saw Mandy again at a meeting, and yep, she has really short hair. I knew Mandy from before. I met her in Buipe where we have Ethiopian missionaries. Her and her husband and kids have been in Ghana a few years with another organization focusing on discipleship training. When I asked her who cut her hair she told me her mom is a stylist and gave her, and her husband Bobby, some tips. Bobby seemed to have a knack for it, and he cuts hers. Her hair looks nice. And to be honest, even if it did not, I was desperate. My hair was starting to go down my neck and, in this weather, you do not want anything on your neck. I knew I would never be able to cut the back of my hair without noticeable bald spots and so, if anyone could help me, I was grateful.
Let me back up. My friend Janice and I were each invited to a Missionary gathering by different people. Apparently, the group started so Missionary Kids (MKs) could hang out together, but I was told the adults enjoy it more. All the people at this gathering are foreigners, except for a few Ghanaian spouses, and they all serve the Lord with different organizations in different areas of the North. They come together at someone’s house once a month for fellowship. It was fascinating to hear what people are doing and how God led them. I was glad I went. And…of course, there was a breakfast potluck, and you know me and my love for potlucks. But I digress, this is about a haircut.
… So Mandy and Bobby were there. Mandy volunteered Bobby and when he found out he was giving me a haircut, he gave that look to his wife… You know, that one that says I-will-kill-you-later. He told me several times he is not a professional and he does not know what he is doing. I mentioned the I-am-desperate-part and told him my hair is curly and if it is uneven no one will really know. I also said, some days I wrap my hair with a scarf, so no one, including me, can tell. AND I told him that anything he does would be better than what I could do. ANY.THING.
He shook his head but agreed. They were staying in Tamale for the night and said I could come to their place. Janice lent me her scissors. Another missionary even had a cape to wrap around my neck! I was all set.
Bobby was quite nervous, but he did a great job. I mean, honestly, I was expecting the worst. I did not even have to tweak it. I was thrilled!! I felt like a new person. The style is the same just shorter. I told him his new name is Bob-ster, the Barber.
You guys, sometimes it’s the little things.
