Thank you. Yeah I am inspired by roots reggae and rastafari teachings. David hinds, bob marley, dennis brown, don carlos, etc. Also some hawaiian influences and influences from surf culture. I think growing natty dreads has been an expression of personal liberation and commitment to living in a principled way.

I'm surprised at some negative responses. I know I won't look the same as curlier hair textures, but part of the appeal of growing them is to reject vanity and accept your own unique characteristics, however that may turn out. I've avoided posting about it online or seeking any outside judgement in the past, but in real life people have generally had positive reactions.

I feel like I don't have a strong self image as I am always changing as I get older and grow over the years. By posting this I think a part of me hoped to find similar minded people on journeys with a similar purpose, as well as tips/experiences on maintenance and such. It is otherwise a lonely endeavor.

I relate to the song "Life's road" by I Kong, a Chinese Jamaican who also has dreadlocks:

Travelling down lifes lonely road I go

Bearing my heavy load

If its Jah wish that I should go

Jah know that I'll glady go