Hair Salon's Free Makeover Gives Man New Beginning

13. Finding It Hard to Recognize Him

Jose's visits to his regular haunts turned into a practice in presenting his new self to shocked friends. This new reality was aptly shown in the situation at the neighbourhood bar: when he ordered a beer, the server presented it to him with the usual courtesy shown to any well-dressed customer, totally ignorant of their past encounters. The waiter's amazement didn't show until Jose personally mentioned the lack of acknowledgement. This exchange made clear how totally his metamorphosis had changed people' impressions of him. Often accompanying homelessness, the social invisibility had been replaced by a presence commanding respect and normal social engagement. This sudden change in his treatment and impression by others was a sobering reminder of how much appearance shapes social contacts and personal dignity.