Great update crumsie! Touching story and yeah i must say the beard has given me more confidence myself too somehow it makes you feel like you're growing and knowing yourself more and connected with your inner self.

Also you must not worry about your image you're pretty handsome and the beard suits you very well.

As for the beard progress is growing fantastic the chin looks bushy and that mustache will be epic huge in some weeks! Also grey hairs are not that bad man it gives the beard personality i guess hahaha. Keep growing man! Its always good to read your updates.