It’s an interesting dynamic between the barber or stylist and the person getting their hair cut. Although not trained in it, they typically end up being a confidant, therapist, friend, and, most importantly, someone who transforms you into a different person. Paul Figueroa is that kind of guy for me. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Paul for about nine years, and since the beginning of our relationship, he’s helped transform me into a better person both physically and mentally. I’ve come to him looking like a complete and utter vagabond, and he’s made me look fantastic. It’s just his natural-born gift. When I was manic, he created order in both my mental state and physical well-being. He listened to my insistent rambling with no judgment. He fixed my manic hairdo and turned it into something neat and professional. I remember the first time he cut my hair, not knowing what would be a good style, I asked him to, and I quote, “make me look pretty.” He did just that. Through his meticulous craftsmanship, he gave me the best haircut I had ever received. I knew moving forward he would be my guy.
It’s somewhat common to get a consistent barber. It’s not common, though, to develop a general friendship. Through the years, we have learned much about each other. Both people-oriented folks, we have big entourages of friends and love experiencing different kinds of activities. Whether it be bar hopping, woman chasing (not so much me anymore, but I live vicariously through him), or even something as simple as talking about Curb Your Enthusiasm, there is a very natural bond between the two of us. There’s something that really captured us as a united front, though: we share the exact same birthday. Although a year apart, our personalities align extremely well. We even reminisce about how our birthdays were the perfect time for gatherings since they coincided with Thanksgiving, when everyone was home for the holidays.
What started out as the traditional barber-patron relationship turned into a friendship that I would like to have for life. I hope one day we’re having a nice conversation with my son or daughter being Paul’s patron, continuing this truly transformative experience.