Bearded in BC wrote:
Dave wrote:

The way I see it, if a guy keeps a beard or any facial hair groomed and clean, then it's on him by his own choice, and he likes it there. It's almost like having a hobby in common with other beard growers, don't you think?
Beardedteen wrote:

I have to agree. As much is people say "It's just a beard", if you put time into shaping it, trimming it, etc., that's proof that it's not "just a beard" to them.
I agree with both of these perspectives and would add that a beard also represents a shared experience with other beard growers, a sort of shared understanding. A beard often marks a rite of passage, as well, which may vary but often is about exploring one's individuality, maturity, confidence, and masculinity.
You nailed it, Bearded.

I often get "the nod of understanding" from other bearded men in public. Once in a while, strangers will strike up conversations about the length of my beard, but those strangers are almost always the unbearded (women, children, and shaved men).