I really enjoyed these thoughts Ivor. Your point about how people used to change their appearance in periods of mourning makes me think of a Jewish tradition after a loved one dies. The immediate family cover all mirrors in the home -- placing their attention away from themself and entirely on the deceased. For a period of time you refrain from cutting any hair (including shaving), etc. It always struck me as a kid -- watching male relatives who were always clean shaven just completely give themselves to grief and visually transform. After the ‘shiva’ it is quite powerful to once again reflect on the self in the mirror (and in the mind). It’s beautiful.
I really enjoyed these thoughts Ivor. Your point about how people used to change their appearance in periods of mourning makes me think of a Jewish tradition after a loved one dies. The immediate family cover all mirrors in the home -- placing their attention away from themself and entirely on the deceased. For a period of time you refrain from cutting any hair (including shaving), etc. It always struck me as a kid -- watching male relatives who were always clean shaven just completely give themselves to grief and visually transform. After the ‘shiva’ it is quite powerful to once again reflect on the self in the mirror (and in the mind). It’s beautiful.