Hi Tom,
I don't know why and how I've never seen your thread before, but now that I saw it, just wanted to drop by and tell you that you're already sporting a very cool beard. It really suits you!
Now on the downside and your insecurities: we all have those moments! As MM already told you, please do not interrupt something that already looks great on you!
You're not doing it for the guy who you played poker with, no! You're only doing it for yourself.
In an intolerant country like the one I'm living in, you won't believe how many times I've heard "You should shave this thing off!"
But you should trust me on this one - at some point they stop noticing

Just keep growing and relax - it's your life, your face and your decision!

Boyan