Kilting and respect

[Graham]

For those of you who are in some position of leadership, whether in politics, church leadership, teaching, management and suchlike, I have a question.

Do you sense that wearing your kilt compromises your position of authority?
Does it detract or minimise the respect to receive from those "under" you?

Do those who look to you for leadership think in their hearts that you are a sandwich short of a picnic?

I'm interested in the views of those in such positions.

[allenlynott]

As a business owner that deals with the public, I have no real problems. When I hold seminars, I usually plan on them starting about 30 minutes late becouse of all the questions. My belief is that a first impression is a lasting impression. When I dawn the kilt, I'm clean shaven, pressed shirt, polished Ghillie Brogues, and combed hair. I get respect becouse I look sharp and that keeps me on my game.

Cheers,
Allen

[Plastic Paddy]

Graham,

I am a police officer and I wear kilts to almost every city, union and extra curricular function and find that few people care. Most comments are of the "You've got to have some big b@lls to wear a kilt." Mostly admiration from my bosses. It's the muck savages and rednecks that take most offence at a kilt. Most are shut down when confronted, but it has never progressed. Mostly the "Homophobe" knackers and I usually just say "Because you find me attractive does not make me gay" and they slink away quickly after.

My co workers are cool and supportive and think it's different. Some people just respect someone for doing something they can't imagine doing themselves, and others try to make a joke at your expense.

Slainte

[John in Texas]

As I am a military type, I dont get much oportunity to kilt up in uniform, the big exception is formal events that are "Black Tie or Dress Blue's".
I have had the chance to kilt at unformal unit bbq's etc, and the troops LOVE it! They think it shows 100% attitude & confidence.
I am making headway as to getting others in the unit into kilts, so I'll drive on till the objective is taken.

[phil h]

Graham,

"Because you find me attractive does not make me gay"


Slainte

I like that comeback, I keeping that one.

[Graham]

Thanks for those very valuable replies.
My question arises not from any lack of confidence, but from a desire to do what is right by others and not just myself. It's very well to say "I can wear what I please", and that is mostly true, but the feelings of others also needs to be considered.

My own position is that of businessman and church leader. Since the ministry of the church is a role I take seriously, given the importance of the message.
I wouldn't want anything to detract from that.

I spoke to a retired minister and kiltman that I met at Toms place a while back (he no longer goes there). He has become a good friend and lives locally.

He believes there is a strong Biblical case to support unbifurcated garments, and that in spite of some conservative views in churches, there is every reason to be proud of wearing a kilt in ministry.

In my role as businessman I have also met with either positive comments or quiet acceptance. Only when doing heavy or dirty work I avoid wearing a kilt.
(My poly-vis kilt is already showing a bit of wear on the front apron through wearing it to work).

So thanks for your replies

[bear]

Graham,

"Because you find me attractive does not make me gay"


Slainte

I like that comeback, I keeping that one.

Ditto

[Graham]

I always feel gay in a kilt