Living Your Best Life – Showing Up for Yourself
Monthly Archives: July 2026
Bawdy Beard Behavior – Do Not Try This at Home (Even If the Internet Tries to Convince You Otherwise)
It is certainly a curious time in history as we navigate the ever-changing world of social media. To be sure, the inventors of the Internet could not have imagined the massive amount of misinformation that can spread almost instantaneously across the world. Indeed, some of the information disseminated can be harmful and sketchy, but some content leans into the comedic and unserious side of the World Wide Web. The latest trending tomfoolery touted as truth arrives in the form of an elder statesman and the playful application of his cologne. His over-the-top theatrics have deluged my social media timeline for the greater part of the past week. So, what is it that has spawned thousands of followers, social media challenges, and satirical spinoffs?
Effortlessly employing a saucy, seductive sleight of hand, he dispenses a mist of cologne before swiftly snatching the molecules out of midair and applying the scented notes to his manly beard. Alas, this was merely a form of frolicsome foreplay before he passionately, provocatively pelvic pumps either the air or the nearest furniture in the area whilst referring to his “big” engine. Honestly, it is quite entertaining and hilarious. However, I have to be that guy and pour a little cold water on this steamy, scented ritual. Unfortunately, many individuals will believe that applying cologne to their beard is the new preferred method. Now, I am not going to write a lengthy opposition piece here; rather, I will just present some honest facts.
Cologne is generally 70-90% alcohol. That being said, knockoff colognes tend to use higher concentrations of alcohol and synthetics than some reputable brands. The skin on your face is delicate; some faces are more sensitive than others. Therefore, it would be wise not to apply cologne to your beard and face. There is a risk of irritating and drying out your skin. Your beard may become dry and scraggly. Seriously, who wants a dry, brittle beard that looks like hay on the face? As a gentleman nearing 50 years of age, and probably rocking a beard for 30 years, I have never seen a recommendation for cologne being rubbed into one’s beard.
Sure, his performative piece on the Internet is perhaps not inflicting any damage on his beard. However, trust me, there will be that one guy who will take this act as gospel, and he will proceed to spray cologne directly into his beard. I have even seen gentlemen with no beard rubbing cologne mist on their bare face. Again, the short videos are funny. However, can we please recognize and acknowledge beard care basics? Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Maintain beard health with a dedicated beard wash, conditioner, balm, and oil. Comb and brush your beard to detangle hair and stimulate growth. Besides, no way am I spraying my good cologne in the air to “snatch” it and then dry hump the air for an Internet flex. I’m too old for all that jazz.
Black Thought
“Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”
– Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Failure. To be absolutely certain, the possibility of failure sometimes negates the action of risk. But without risk, albeit intelligent and calculated risk, the beauty of success cannot be viewed from above if one willfully settles into deep valley of fear. Now fear, of course, can be a powerful and intense emotion that dictates behavior and conduct. A myriad of promising dreams and aspirations have collapsed under the immense weight of fear. Fortunately, your broad shoulders are blessed with the strength to not only bear the doubt, the trepidation, the uneasiness; they are also strong enough to press its worrisome mass high and toss it aside with relative ease. Why? Well, because friend, your character is constructed with a firm confidence and fortified with unwavering faith. Even when others cannot see the entire picture, your vision is broadened by belief, hope, and trust – in yourself. And you understand that your vision is a vision of success. The path is set, the destination is clear, all you have to do is take the first step. And don’t fear, we’re all walking this road together.
The Standard #66
Sometimes a gentleman will unexpectedly discover himself in an unfamiliar, perhaps unwelcoming environment. It is easier said than done, but do not burden yourself with debilitating worry. Undoubtedly, the immediate surroundings and circumstances present new challenges. Moreover, a gentleman’s growth and development may be temporarily stunted; you may have even regressed to some degree. Nevertheless, the gentleman retains the core qualities that define his character and resolve. To be certain, an unanticipated arrival of adverse conditions should never erase the blueprint responsible for personal prosperity and earned excellence. Smartly leaning into the attributes and purpose that guided you to success, trust, and you will flourish once again.
Pictured is a black-eyed Susan that I transplanted from my sister-in-law’s yard to my own. The first picture I snapped was shortly after planting. The voyage was quite rough for her; she was in bad shape. Nevertheless, with an attentive hand and measured care, she has been able to bounce back after a few short weeks. Black-eyed Susans are said to symbolize endurance and resilience. It can thrive in harsh soil, tolerate scorching heat, and resist early frost. You may find yourself in a new situation. You may find yourself weathering harsh new conditions. You may find yourself wilting under the weight of weariness and woe. However, your purpose calls upon you to survive, revive, and thrive in any environment. Never forget your identity. Never forget your foundation. Never forget your greatness.
The Gentlemen's Standard 