Polonius gets a Momley Revision

When Momley met Smoggie, they were both 24. It was the first full time job for the both of them. What Momley noticed over a few days was that Smoggie never wore any clothing in colour. He always wore a white shirt with khakis and a tie. The tie was the only colourful part of the ensemble. And the ties would change, but it was not a noticeable change!

Once they became friends, Momley asked Smoggie about his white shirts and khakis. And Momley will never forget Smoggie's honest and candid response. Without going into details, the reason was that Smoggie prioritized paying off his student loan over spending money on stuff like clothing. So, he simplified his clothing options. And Momley will always remember the day Smoggie paid off his debt. He asked Momley if she wanted to go shopping with him?! It was the most fun shopping spree ever. The next few days were a dazzling display of colour.

It is not the clothes we wear that make us who we are and clothes should never be the first impression for anyone. I actually have a better version of the above story that I occasionally share with the boys. The reason for this non detailed version is to segue into the story below.

I am from the Smoggie school of thought as well. When I first quit my job to move to the States to be with Craigley, I quit walking into Eaton's (which was alive and well then) and would simply window shop at Reitman's! The second time I stopped working was after ASid was born. And I also stopped shopping for clothing again. It didn't make any sense to buy clothes when I opted to stay at home. I believe, for ASid's second Christmas, I got mostly PJs as presents. That's what I wore mostly; they were comfortable and Momley friendly.

A couple of months ago, I went and got a new winter jacket. My old one was a gift from Craigley's parents for my first Christmas as a married woman. I refused to wear that for a long time since it did not align with my taste. Also, I had my own and it wasn't a necessity at that point in time. The first time I wore it was when ASid was in JK and I would frequently walk to his school to volunteer and needed something warm. Functionality won over style. That was in 2005.

In 2017, after 12 winters, the jacket stopped functioning. I didn't care that the zipper hadn't been fixed for years, but I cared when the cold chilled me to the bone and got me sick! So, I decided to finally get out there and buy a new winter jacket. And I did. It was an immediately noticeable change. It got a lot of dialogue going on multiple levels. And it inspired this post as well!

It is important to dress appropriately for the weather and it is important to dress accordingly for work or an event. On a daily basis though, it is essential to be true to oneself and one's needs. There will always be people who will judge us on what we wear or how we look, and jump to conclusions. That is their problem.

Polonius, I agree with thee on certain points! Thanks Shakespeare!

 

Noteworthy Remarks: Of course, if you have the monetary means, indulge yourself with a jacket per day of the season…if that is what you want and if that is what makes you happy!