I was doing some online shopping for my son’s back to school clothes and came across Fear of God Essentials.

My kids never cared about labels. In fact, my one son cared so little, that he chose to wear all black every single day.

And not just all black, but the same black t-shirts and the same black sweatpants.

I bought him several of the same items, but some may have thought he was wearing the same (dirty) clothes every single day.

Guess what… he didn’t give a shit.

He told me kids would ask why he wears black all the time. His answer, “Because it’s the easiest.”

Ok future Steve Jobs, I see you.

This year he decided to venture (a tiny bit) out of the land of black, but still keep it comfortable.

So when I stumbled on Fear of God Essentials, and saw it was basic sweats and t-shirts, I asked if kids liked that brand. He said yes.

I asked if he wanted me to get him any of it. He said no.

Well thank the Lord, because then I saw that a plain t-shirt that didn’t even have a logo on it was $90.00!!

Don’t get me wrong, I’d be willing to spend a little extra dough on this kid – all those years of sweats and tees from Old Navy were very friendly to my budget.

I also remember when Reebok first hit the market and I felt like the coolest kid in fourth grade because I was the 2nd one to score a pair of high tops.

I get it.

Him saying no to the clothes makes my heart burst (partially because my wallet didn’t) but also because it says so much about him.

He’s not a follower like I was. He doesn’t find a sense of pride in people knowing he spent $165.00 on a hoodie like I would have.

Shit, not too long ago, I based my worth on how many designer bags I had.

I told him that’s one of the things I love so much about him – that he makes his own rules.

I did say that if he ever wanted any of that stuff I’d get it for him – I didn’t want him to think my praise meant he could never change his mind.

He still said no.

I said, “Good, because I’d rather buy you another guitar for $200.00 than a t-shirt.”

He agreed.