Everyone has a mean old man in their life. He may not be the first person you go to for advice, but he’s the person you go to when the advice really matters.
It’s the Mean Old Man paradox. Get used to it.
Some folks think he’s a Mean Old Man. He has a past, and lots of history. When folks say “old school” they’re talking about him. He’s been around, got in a bit of trouble when he was young. Nothing serious. He keeps a secret, lots of them. He loves the women in his life. He holds his temper . . . to a point. He won’t start anything, but god knows if push him a bit too far, he’ll finish it. He’s been heard to say “She’s my daughter. I love her more than life itself. Don’t screw with me, son.”
Deep down though, he’s a pretty good guy. He believes in doing what’s right, even when no one’s looking. Being true to yourself. Taking care of the people around you. Realizing that, at a certain point in life, you have more history than future, and you better make the most out of the little time that’s left. He’s the kind of guy you wish was your neighbor. Maybe even your dad. Hell, he might be . . .
He’s a real guy who’s lived long enough to have a time-tested perspective and earned a bit of a refined attitude.
- Favorite Pastimes: Fishing off Useppa Island, FL and watching his wife ride horses
- Favorite Car: ’64 MGB
- Current Ride: ‘93 Jeep YJ
- Favorite Shoes: 20 year old Tony Lama Ostrich Boots
- Drink: Vodka and three black olives
- Residence: Horse farm on the Gulf Coast
- First Tattoo: Fish, reminds him of Catalina Island
- Watch: Rolex Explorer and Luminox Sea Turtle
- Nickname: M.O.M
- Favorite Boat: 40’ Hatteras
- Favorite Game: Gin Rummy for cash
He’s been rich and he’s been broke, and he’ll tell you rich is a heck of a lot more fun. He’s been known to quote one of his buddies when he asks “how many good weekends do you have left?” as he slides away from the dock on a boat for a few hours of fishing in the middle of the day.
He doesn’t have a lot a patience anymore (never did), and he won’t take a lot of crap. He misses the friends and family that are gone and he’s a bit amused that he’s still here. He can be a little cynical. His most frequent response to stupid stuff is just one word, “Really?” as he gives you that gaze that says “dumb ass”.
It took him years to get like this. Like his weathered skin, his soul has a patina formed from decades of enjoying life. He’s a lot more than a mean old man, but that’s just how he comes across. It’s an attitude, a state of mind. A fine balance. And that’s fine with him.
Do you know a real-life Mean Old Man? Celebrate his tenacity, his wisdom, his attitude . . . buy him a drink, listen when he talks. He’ll tell you the truth, whether you want to hear it or not.
Do you know a real-life Mean Old Man?
Let him know you recognize how he fits into your life. Guru, devil’s advocate, refuge of last resort – your go-to when life asks you the hard questions. Get him something he’d appreciate here at MeanOldMan.com.
