During the Covidiocy, I found a new barbershop. Based dudes. Good convo. Good place. But it's a bit far and I thought I'd try a closer place today.

Walked in, and I was the only customer. A man was sitting in a barber chair, and a woman invited me in. A woman? I don't consider it a true barbershop if there is a woman anywhere in the building. A salon? Fine. But a barbershop is one of the last dude-only places. Or, should be.

But I guess she was "up" and so she cut my hair.

She wore a face mask. I told her she didn't have to wear it, as far as I am concerned. She ignored my comment. The TV was on and it had a trash daytime show on. In between pleasant conversation, I told her that show was poison. She ignored that comment, too.

She was a nice lady. But I did not like the vibe of the environment. At the end, I went to the cash register and paid. I usually tip 50% for haircuts. It's a far more personal service than a restaurant, and I think the tip should be a good one. This time, I did not tip anything.

I said, "Before I go, I want to tell you something. I think you are a nice lady. I think you did a good job on my haircut. But I will not be coming back. The reason I won't be coming back is that (pointing to TV) is garbage, and I find it offensive. And I also find it offensive that you are wearing a face mask. Face masks do not stop the spread of viruses. We have all been lied to, and you are perpetuating that lie by wearing it. I think you are a nice person and I wish you luck, but I won't be coming back."

Her eyes were huge. She was in shock. Stunned. Could not speak, it would seem. Just then, the phone rang, and she turned to answer it. I turned, and walked out the door.

Was it too harsh? I am done being on the defensive. If the sheep won't wake up on their own, maybe they need a poke in the ribs.

Mixed feelings on it, but that is how it went down.