Sorry William;
I eschewed that slovenly look and refused my boys the "privilege" of being ratty..
Perhaps i am too "old fashioned" but considered the long locks "womanly"..even though MOST women were neater with their hair..
As today, I figure earrings, necklaces, lipstick, mascara & eye shadow as 'womanish" things...LOL
Now, I bet I stirred the pot !...LOL
ironglow, I AGREE. I did NOT participate in the long hair, jewelry, and drugs, as I held to higher standards of both appearance and conduct. My son's were also deprived of such conduct and dress, and were advised early on that they were not living in a Democracy, but rather a Totalitarian environment while under my roof. Life ran smoothly then. They are grown and have still avoided the rattiness. I (and I suspect they also) DID participate however, in a little beer drinkin, some two-steppin, rough horses, a few rougher than necessary bulls, and a lot of Merle Haggard's brand of country music. I have continued with the higher standards on appearance and conduct, and Merle Haggard music, however, I have in my old age seen wisdom in avoiding rowdy livestock.
We will stir the pot together. After all, that is what pots are for, although some chose to smoke them, rather than stir them.