February 2001:

Rafter shaves his head and beard for charity and for the improvement of life for those in need...

   My initial reactions were of shock and my selfish disappointment of the loss of his gorgeous, long, brown locks of hair. Unlike many fans, I'm not going to lie and say I think he looks better with the "Mr. Clean" look. I know in my opinion I prefer his physical appearance with long hair. I did write a poem about Rafter called "Shave the Day", but that was in reference to the beard which I think makes for a greedy pirate look...again my opinion. I just don't like facial hair.

   I thought more about this recent action and was enlightened to a new approach. One of the movies I recommend at this site is based on the C.S. Lewis children's novel, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. It takes place in a magical land where animals speak and a mighty lion named "Aslan" rules the land called "Narnia". When Narnia is overtaken by an evil witch who makes Narnia constantly in a cold, harsh winter, Aslan makes a sacrifice to save the other animals and beings in Narnia. The witch attempts to humiliate the mighty king by shaving off his mane and precious fur. Aslan then allows her to kill him to save Narnia. Once the reader gets the sense of the tremendous sadness of the other beasts, Aslan is found alive and well again...ready to defeat the witch.

   Aslan saved Narnia by his generosity and humility. With Rafter shaving his "mane" for the sake of charity, he has also proved himself to be generous, caring, mighty,  and courageous...characteristics not found very often in this modern world full of selfishness and avarice. He has further earned the loyalty and respect of his fans, although our unconditional support is something he never needed to coax. Some fans claim Patrick would rather be recognized for his tennis skills than his good looks, but I'm sure he understands that we marvel at both! I still maintain my viewpoint that Patrick looks better with long hair, but each precious strand will grow back if Rafter allows it. I am in awe that this magnificent tennis champion could possess the equally inspiring selflessness which for a long time has only been frequent in fiction!