Kilted at the Korale Koncert

[Panache]

My father is a member of his retirement community’s Choir. This weekend I attended their Spring Chorale concert kilted ( try to say that fast three times in a row) . My Mom is not the biggest fan of my kilt wearing (which in a perverse way makes it far more fun to wear kilts around her ). When I told her that I and my family were looking forward to seeing my Dad perform, the first thing out her mouth was “you won’t wear a kilt will you?“ She felt that all the older folks wouldn’t understand what I was wearing and be some sort of embarrassment to her . I assured that that I was ABSOLUTELY going to wear one (actually I hadn’t really thought about it until she mentioned it in so negative a light ).

So I, my beautiful wife, and two children went to the Chorale Concert. They sang some old gospel, a mini version of “The Music Man” (to honor a past Chorale member who had recently passed away), and a salute to the US armed forces with the theme songs to the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Marines. It was a fun little concert with maybe about 100+ people in attendance. Lots of older folks and a few of their families. It was very enjoyable (though in my opinion the Coast Guard needs a better theme song).

Anyway, I had 12 people approach me and to tell me how much they liked my kilt and ask me questions about my outfit. One couple in their late 70’s came up to me to tell me of the four years they lived in Aberdeen and how beautiful Scotland was. Another elderly gentleman walked up to me and told me how both his parents were Scots and he grew up with kilts.. Other’s wanted to talk about their clans or tartans. One charming lady was most curious about my flashes. I was sincerely asked two or three times if I was there to play the bagpipes (one lady was most disappointed I wasn’t). All in all a lovely time with lots of really positive interactions. The only disappointment was that my 6 year son’s kilt had not arrived in time to wear to the concert as well.

Oh, and as for my Mom? One of her good friends apparently pointed me out to her (not realizing I was her son) telling her how handsome the fellow in the kilt looked. When my Mom introduced me and my family to her other friends they were all very complimentary about my attire. She conceded that perhaps my wearing a kilt wasn’t so bad after all.

After the concert there was an old fashioned ice cream social (which my cute 3 year daughter was very very VERY happy with) followed by grilled sausages and good beer at my parent’s house.

All in all a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon

[Rex_Tremende]

What a wonderful account of your day with the family. What an excellent way for your mother to come around to a measure of support.

Regards,
Rex in Cincinnati

[davedove]

I have found that the older folks are very accepting of the kilt, especially the men who have a military background. I have had many a veteran of WWII and Korea tell me of the kilted soldiers they met in the service.

[Robin]

Very nice Panache!

The elderly people are often really cool...sincere, outspoken, fantastic sense of humor and walking history books...oh...and a bit grumpy now and then

My mum is 75...at first she wasn't delighted to hear about my kilt wearing, but when she saw me kilted she changed her mind instantly. She asked for pictures of me wearing my kilt...3 pictures proudly on display now.

really sweet

[Mysticwolf]

Panache,
A wonderful, heartening story!
I sometimes wonder how my own mom might react were she here to see me kilted. (She passed away several years ago, God rest her soul) She had some strong opinions about my long hair and propensity for wearing black
It's good to know that your mom's friends surprised both she and you with their positive reactions. I spoke to a elderly friend of mone the other day, and he had a similar reaction, one of general interest and support.

[Riverkilt]

Its always touching for me when the old guys stand up for their service's song.

Ron