Nude Novice Notes: Mixed Company

COME ON OUT OF YOUR CLOSET OF CLOTHES AND WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF SOCIAL NUDITY!


Within the world of social nudity, there are occasions when some activities and events may be clothing optional as opposed to strictly naturist/nudist. In other words, mixed company, both clothed and nude. Depending on the situation, these may vary in attendance and frequency. As a nude novice, it's important to be aware and for some, to prepare, mentally, at least, ahead of time.


Some men new to social nudism may possibly have a discomfort with being naked in the company of others who are wearing clothes, even if they are shirtless or in underwear. This is understandable given the different backgrounds in which some were raised. Persons who are taught from an early age that being nude in front of others is evil, nasty or a sin perhaps experience anxiety or unease in this type of environment.  Actually, the same is also true for some veteran social nudists. Values, attitudes and beliefs instilled in us since childhood are often difficult to overcome.

It's important to know the reason why clothing optional or mixed company situations can occur. Some social nudist groups hold these periodically as a means of introducing other same gender loving men to the nudist life. Members are permitted to invite acquaintances and friends who are curious about naturism/nudism and hosting a social opportunity for them to meet gay nudists and undress to their comfort level allows them to experience and relax in a nakedness atmosphere. Another reason for a clothing optional gathering is a joint event co-hosted with another group that isn't nudecentric. Regardless of the reasons, such mixers are held and present chances for the two, nude and textile, to intermingle.

The choices open to any nudist, new or otherwise, vary as to their respective level of comfort with nakedness in mixed company. It is strictly an individual decision with no across the board formula. The basic option is not to participate; at least, until the man is okay with being nude around those who aren't. The second option is to attend and undress either to the point of comfort or gradually strip down to the point of being completely naked, as personal comfort level increases with the given situation. All of these possibilities are acceptable and understandable.

A third decision available requires a minimum of preplanning but is likewise viable. Contact a few social nudist buddies in advance and explain the predicament: concern about being naked in the presence of other men who are textile (clothed, to whatever degree). Ask if you can hang out with them, as a small group, until totally relaxed with the mixed environment. This solution allows the nude novice to be with other nude brothers and not find themselves alone with several clothed guests.

Not everyone is entirely amenable with being nude around men who aren't. This varies from man to man. There is no clear cut answer to this dilemma but by knowing options, permits the individual to make whatever choice works best for themselves.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Not My Money And Kiss My...!

Another day in the life of homophobic America and I'm adamant, not my money down the toilet no more. Now, I remember as a teenager when I first ate at a Chick-fil-a restaurant. I really liked their original chicken sandwich. And I continued to enjoy them until about two years ago when I first learned of the Cathy family's donations to anti-equality organizations. When I thought about the two or three dozen sandwiches I had consumed there over the years, I said no more. I stopped patronizing the franchise.

I'm quite certain my private little boycott of this business didn't hurt the corporate profit margin in the least. I never had any illusions otherwise. But I do have the satisfaction of knowing that not one penny of my hard-earned money has gone towards an enterprise that denies my community equality under both the Constitution and the law. I'm proud of myself and what I am doing.

President Dan Cathy's public statements and stance on marriage equality has renewed attention, both pro and con, on the southern-based fast food chain. His remarks in support of traditional marriage and the "biblical definition" of families and generous contributions to candidates and groups opposed to the GLBT community have angered and disgusted both politicians and the public who are in favor of inclusion and equal rights for all Americans.

This controversy has reached new heights not seen since the story first made headlines several years ago. Emotions are flamed as both sides on the controversy are gearing up for a pitched battle in this already charged political climate due to the upcoming presidential election.

Up until now, the donations to anti-gay organizations and political candidates were acknowledged by the company and the Cathy family. However, they remained silent about their individual politics and did not enter into any equality debates over marriage, Don't Ask, Don't Tell, DOMA, etc. Cathy's comments ended that quiet truce and placed the fast-food corporation into that arena.

Opponents and supporters have entered into the picture and are fighting the food-battle over lunch counters nationwide. There is a Chick-Fil-A Appreciation Day scheduled for Wednesday, August 1, where people are encouraged to show opposition to marriage equality by eating at their local store. There is a Same-Sex Public Kiss-In scheduled by GLBT advocates for Friday, August 3, again, at the local establishments. Media coverage of both is expected to add fuel to the controversy fire.

Ironically, among all this frenzy, the company's public spokesperson suddenly died. Feeling just a little pressure, the business has stated that it will avoid politics in the future. These two developments failed to remove the heat from the debate, however.

No one is denying the basic right of the Cathy family or the franchise from exercising their free speech options. Personally, I believe they can, and will, do what they want. Fine. They're just not getting any money from my pocket to eventually use in their quest towards bigotry and hatred. Nor will any other establishment that sponsors exclusion and inequality. I may not be able to change policy but I'll have the satisfaction of directing my discretionary income into the coffers of accepting and welcoming enterprises who tolerate diversity; be it food, electronics, entertainment or whatever.

Besides, the few times that I am forced to consume fast food, I prefer KFC or Popeye's chicken over CFA, anyway.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!   

The Games Are Here!

The Summer Olympics, 2012, are here and the Games are now officially open! These will be the most accessible and viewed games ever! Congratulations and best wishes to all participants for you are already heroes! Long live the Olympic ideals of harmony and peace!

The Queen arrives and the Opening Ceremony begins with the Parade of Nations filling the stadium in East London. Most of the Royal Family was in attendance.

London's Kaos Signing Choir for Deaf and Hearing Children welcomed The Queen and led the Stadium in the Royal Anthem "God Save The Queen." Very inclusive using children of all abilities.

The Greek Delegation of Athletes leads the Parade of Nations into the stadium in London. Opa` Hellas! Go Team Greece!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

The Race Is On! Let The Games Begin!

Today's the day! The Opening Ceremony of the 2012 Summer Olympics in London! Let the games begin! London has had a remarkable summer: it began with Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee and now the Olympiad. For this summer, at least, this city is party central, international!

With all the advances in modern technology, this is the most accessible Olympics held to date! Just imagine, 24/7 Olympic events, for the entire seventeen days! Who needs sleep?

Am I excited about these festivities? Absolutely! Somehow, I missed all of the 2008 Games in Beijing. The last summer Olympics I saw (up close and personal) were Athens, 2004. So yes, it's time I ended my sports festival fast!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Nudecentric Briefs: San Francisco Naked This Weekend

FOR THE NATURIST/NUDIST, THE ONLY REASON FOR OWNING A PAIR OF BRIEFS IS TO TAKE THEM OFF!

NUDE NEWS

Saturday, July 28: Due to popular demand and requests, World Naked Bike Ride organizers have scheduled a second opportunity World Naked Bike Ride event for this upcoming Saturday. Even if you aren't able to ride, all are welcome to arrive at Justin Herman Plaza and hang out nude. The gathering in the Plaza begins at 11:00 a.m., with the cyclists departing around noon. The picture at the right is from the World Naked Bike Ride event in San Francisco in June, 2012.

Sunday, July 29: San Francisco's Up Your Alley Street Fair is this Sunday at the crossroads of Dore Alley and Folsom Streets. Known as the "Nasty Little Brother" to the annual Folsom Street Fair held annually in September, this one also features leather and fetish wear and nudity. The picture left is from the 2011 event.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Source: www.mitchhightower.blogspot.com

Greek Olympians Were Nude Because...

On the eve of the Opening Ceremony for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, a look at the history of the festivities and an understanding of why, for almost a thousand years, the original Olympians, the Greeks, competed while naked. Is it because they had a complete disdain for clothing? Or, is it because spectators wanted pornography and a live showing was all that was available at the time? Probably, for at least a few of the competing athletes, both of the above may be true. However, there was a legitimate reason for ancient Greek sports to honor and celebrate nudity.

The first Olympians competed nude for two important reasons. Foremost, the Olympics were held in honor of the god, Zeus, and the competitors wanted to demonstrate to him how hard they had trained by offering their nudity as a tribute to him. Secondly, the amateur athletes used their buffed and fit bodies as a tool to intimidate their opponents. Thirdly, the men wanted to show their commitment and dedication to the games by allowing all the spectators to see them free from the obstruction of clothing. Fourth, it was accepted that external (physical) beauty represented each competitors internal beauty as well and exhibited their desire for a balance between body and mind. Finally, and possibly true in all cases, it was the sin of pride in what they had achieved physically.

Before starting a days training or competition, Greek Olympians would rub their body with olive oil and then dust themselves with a fine sand. This helped to regulate their body temperature and protect them from the sun. After the workout or games, the athletes would scrape off the sweat, sand and olive oil with a curved tool known as a sturgil. Then they would wash using a sponge and water.

Whereas almost all Olympians were nude, however, a very few wore a kynodsme, a thin leather string looped around the penis, holding it in an upturned position, and then tied around the waist. This kept the penis in place during practice or competition and kept the scrotum exposed, as well as the underside of the penis.  

The Olympic Games were actually only one of a series of sports festivals held in ancient Greece to pay homage to the gods. These events were scheduled so as not to conflict with one another and so that at least one was held every calendar year. The Olympic Games were the most important and prestigious of all the games. They honored Zeus and were held every four years near the city of Elis. The Pythian Games, were offered every four years near Delphi honoring Apollo. The Nemean Games were held every two years near Nemea and also were in tribute to Zeus. The Isthmian Games were also conducted every two years near Corinth in honor of Poseidon. Competitors in all of these different events were nude.

The first Olympic Games were held in 776 BC and consisted only of one event, the stade, a single foot race of approximately 185 meters. The winner of this competition was a chef from the City of Elis named Koroibus. His prize was a head wreath of wild olive leaves. The games were held continuously until 393 AD, when they were outlawed by the Emperor Theodosius I. The ban was enacted in order to pave the way for Christianity as the state religion. The modern Olympics were revived in 1896.  

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

 

Remembering E. Lynn Harris And A Friend

Two days ago, July 23, marked the third anniversary of the death of internationally reknown and celebrated author, E. Lynn Harris, at the age of 54 years old. I remember being at work when the news initially broke over the internet. I was, as we all were, shocked and stunned. My first thoughts were: "This is a hoax; it can't be real." For the next block of minutes I was frantically hitting every search engine possible looking for confirmation of this sick joke. Slowly, reality sank in as I realized that this wasn't a prank. One of my favorite authors was, indeed, dead.

Mr. Harris was a groundbreaking author who introduced the world to an entire community that few knew even existed. He wrote a series of novels that exposed readers to characters rarely depicted in literature: black, masculine, affluent gay men who were successful in their chosen careers, complex and, sometimes, tormented. During his all-too-brief literary profession, he had more than four million books in print.

He also introduced to many the concept of the "down low." The men who are in relationships with women yet have sex with men on the sly. Men who don't identify as gay or bisexual but still are actively intimate with one or more of their own agenda. Men who aren't closeted because they don't see themselves as having a closet or reason to hide what they perceive as their own business.

E. Lynn's novels were always packed with quirky characters who sprang to life within the pages inside the covers. They were funny, stupid, foolish and devious. They were loving and lovable, hateful and spiteful. And his books were always exciting; there was one common theme throughout them all, "lots of drama." Hollywood couldn't possibly equal him in that department.

Once I discovered his books, I was hooked. I couldn't wait for the next one to hit the shelves at local bookstores. Regardless of when they were released, I always saved them as my summer reading. I wanted to have the opportunity to savor them as a fine wine and fully comprehend each and every word. My favorite time of the year deserved both a good read and a talented author.

My staff noticed my reading selection and often asked about the content. Eventually, one by one, they, too, became addicted to his works. It soon got to the point that I knew I had to buy several copies of his novels in paperback and keep them available for employees to read. That fact is a tribute to Harris' ability as an author. Often, workers would stay after their scheduled time (on their own dime) in order to "read just one more chapter." Such was his broad appeal; it transcended gender, race and sexualities.

Mr. Harris' final two novels were published posthumously. Thus, I had a new one to read in both the summers of 2010 and 2011. I'm truly feeling the void this year. It's the summer of 2012 and I really miss an old friend. Rest in peace, E. Lynn Harris. You are sorely missed here on earth.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

E. Lynn Harris

 


Reader Appreciation Day

Sometimes, we don't say it soon enough

Sometimes, we don't say it often enough

Sometimes, it never gets said at all.

Before that happens

or goes unsaid,

I just want each and everyone of you

to know,

How much I appreciate you all.

Thank you for your support

and your loyalty.

You're the best!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!



Persecution Or Dignity?

We live in times when all sorts of haters are unashamedly espousing all manner of harm and injury against GLBT people. It seems as though the bigots and homophobes are on a stampede as to all the damage they want rendered against our community. Unfortunately, in the climate of this hotly-contested presidential election year, the rhetoric and evil will only escalate as the actual election day approaches. Be aware: it's only going to get worse.

Sadly, some of the loudest voices clamoring for harsh persecution of GLBT peoples are those from recognized Christian clergymen. These supposed leaders of communities adhering to the beliefs of the Prince of Peace are advocating anything except peace and tolerance. They are publicly proclaiming actions ranging from quarantining our community to outright violence and ultimately death.

As we are all aware, homophobia has existed for millenia, even though the term is of very recent origin. Similarly, ecclesiastical persecution of GLBT people has been around for over a thousand years. This is hardly news. However, we are now in the 21st century; supposedly, a period of human enlightenment. The overwhelming majority of peoples throughout the world enjoy a higher level of education and literacy than previously at any time in our history. These exhortations of hatred, intolerance and violence, especially from those occupying positions of leadership within faith communities, is inexcusable.

The actions that the so-called followers of Christ are advocating are in direct contradiction to the basic tenets of Christianity. These smack of the practices of the Nazis in their execution of the Final Solution and against the traditional ideals of peace, love and brotherhood. Clearly, the stewards of the Christian faithful have turned their backs on the religion they claim to represent and shepherd. One can only wonder what other church doctrines they choose to ignore. Somewhere along the way, the keys to the kingdom of heaven have been misplaced.  

Amazingly, of the two major political parties in this country, the one that claims to personify morality and traditional values has remained entirely silent about this hypocrisy. Just imagine if this were our community calling for this same treatment against clerics. Either they agree with the sacred apostates or the GLBT constituency simply isn't worth neither their attention nor their time. On the other hand, it could be (and probably) is a combination of both. From the GOP silence on this issue, the moral compass they want us to believe they hold has been misplaced along with the missing keys of the kingdom.

Now, the GOP has spoken out in the past when religious leaders crossed the line with regards to GLBT citizens. On September 11, 2001, when Jerry Falwell publicly blamed the entire tragedy because of America's gay population, the White House, under the direction of George the Bloody, firmly let him know that he was completely inappropriate and that was not the time for his grandstanding. Falwell backed down and remained quiet (for that particular moment). So the politicians have no problems with taking clergy to task (and vice versa).

When religious leaders abandon their beliefs and the self-appointed secular leadership discard their facade of moral authority, where does that leave the GLBT people to turn for guidance? Most definitely, not to those who cannot remain steadfast to their principles. They've already demonstrated their willingness to embrace cowardice and hypocrisy in order to further their personal agendas. We all know them for what they truly are: haters and exclusionists.

Instead of suffering the fate that their bigotry, indifference and silence have in store for us, we do have options. One is to seek out the growing number of faith communities that really practice the true

doctrines of their respective religions. These congregations and groups gather in churches, mosques and temples throughout the USA and are accepting, embracing and welcoming to all persons, according to the basic teachings of inclusion and love for all humanity. The faithful adhere to the spirit of what is good and just in the treatment and respect of all persons. The clergy responsible serve as guardians of the sanctity of their various faiths.

In the realm of the secular, we can support the moderates who, although they may not like us, recognize our humanity and our rights to equality. They acknowledge the principles contained within the Constitution and legal traditions to ensure fairness and justice for all persons. These leaders maintain national values over personal beliefs and feelings. They act in accordance with the precepts of benevolent governance.

Finally, we can support those who are our real allies in the political arena. They openly advocate and promote the ideals of liberty and justice for all, not merely those who think and act as they do. They believe in the inalienable rights for everyone and stand by their promise to protect and defend those rights, not matter the consequences. Sometimes, they make mistakes along the way; they may not always prioritize agendas to suit us. However, we know them to be persons of integrity who will not disregard equality and fairness because it may be the easy road to follow. They respect and value both the law and their constituents.

This is one of many reasons why I am again actively supporting President Barack Obama for re-election. I believe in his vision for our country and his ability to translate this vision into reality. He has demonstrated his honesty when it wasn't in his best interests to do so. Many criticized him for his evolution on the issue of marriage equality. Yes, he took his time in publicly announcing his endorsement. However, it was his decision to make when it was right for him. At least, he was open and honest with all of us throughout this process.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

     http://www.barackobama.com

Bottoms Up! Long Weekend!

I'm finally taking advantage of my own medicine! I've written here repeatedly over the past several months urging everyone to seize the moment and enjoy all opportunities to frolic outside during this summer season. Well, summer is half over and I'm going to practice what I preach! I'm taking a four-day weekend! Totally unplanned and spur-of-the-moment.

I woke up yesterday morning and decided: I'm going to do this! I turned to my boyfriend and we agreed to get up, pack up, gas up (the auto) and drive wherever our hearts and wallets would allow. No itinerary, no agenda and no reservations! Just the two of us on the road to who-knows-where!

This could be the adventure of a lifetime or a road trip from hell. It has the potential of being fun and relaxing or a complete disaster. Next week, specifically Monday morning, will be the judge of what transpires. In the meantime, we're off and driving! Of course, our ultimate destination, rest assured, will be a location where we both are free to be nude!

Happy and safe weekend!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Forging Friendships

Humans are basically social creatures. We tend to gravitate towards companionship and often surround ourselves with those we perceive as most like ourselves. This social tendency transcends races, cultures, religions and the scores of classifications that we, as humans, create in order to define ourselves. It seems that no matter how hard we try to build barriers between ourselves and our fellow human, the overwhelming need for being in the company of others doesn't disappear.  In fact, as we become obsessed with identifying ourselves, the greater the instinct for social interaction.


I'm not immune from this phenomenon. As a social nudist, I fall right into the middle of this matrix for being among others similar to me. Funny, that's probably the reason why we label ourselves "social nudists." It's convenient for seeking out those who mirror ourselves, at least, in our own individual eyes and minds.

I've written here many times previously that for most of my life, I've practiced nudity, specifically, social nudity. Therefore, my outlook is based on almost forty years of personal experience. I've noticed one thing about the friendships that I've made over the course of my life. The people closest to me, consistently throughout my life, are the ones that I've met when naked. I don't mean those who may be socially nudists but I happened to meet when we were both wearing clothes. The men that I'm referring to here are the ones that from the moment that we were introduced (or introduced ourselves), we were physically naked. After we became acquainted, we have interacted while in clothes. But when we first met, we were mutually nude.

Aside from my biological queer naturist family (my twin brother and a first cousin), this predicament is true. I even met my partner of four years now at a nudist event. He is the first man that I've been involved with where this situation is the case and ours is the longest relationship that I've had in my life thus far.

This realization burst into my consciousness last week. I was buying postcards, from a gift shop at a nudist resort, while celebrating Nude Recreation Week. I only send post cards to my closest friends; it's a personal joke between us. As I was standing in line for checkout, mentally I reviewed the list of recipients and it dawned on me: I met everyone of these men when we were both bare-assed naked.

The more I thought about this, I began to wonder, initially to myself and later with my boyfriend, why is this so. What is it that makes these particular friendships stronger than others? Of course, not all of my friends are naturists/nudists, but all of my close, best friends are. And of these, every single one of them, we first met while natural and free from clothes.

I don't have any conclusive nor definitive answer to my questions. Perhaps, it's personal choice. This is supported that my situation is not the same for Twin, whereas it is for Cuz. However, the fact that there is at least one identical case among my circle of intimate family and friends makes me think there's more to it than simply choice. In discussing this with my partner and my cousin, we all agreed that a subconscious decision may be involved but it could very well be other dynamics involved as well.

Maybe, it's a case where our mutual nakedness forged our bonds. Upon meeting, we obviously had nothing to conceal from one another, physically. Since this was true, we may have taken this openness to the next level,  honestly and emotionally. After all, in our mutual nakedness, we are exchanging a gift in allowing others to view our true, physical being. Why not take this trust further and share our essence, as well?

It might be this elevated and heightened feeling of trust that enhances our emotional intimacy towards our brother queer naturists.  That theory is also backed by the premise that people prefer the company of others they believe are similar to themselves. Quite possibly, this is the reason why all of my closest friends are gay male nudists. It wasn't by conscious choice that this happened. Just maybe it was the trust factor.

No matter the reason, I'm grateful to have these friends within my intimate circle. Close friends aren't made easily and are to be cherished.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!  

Ride 'Em! Giddy-Up!

Today is Wednesday, Hump Day, the middle day of the traditional work-week. It's also mid-July, almost the middle of the summer season. Precisely two weeks from today, it's the first day of August. Here on the East Coast of the USA, it's a record-breaking year for high temperatures. I think all of us can agree that: "Baby, it's hot outside!" Exactly my type of weather!

So, what are we to do? Hop on board and ride the heat wave! Bask in the sun while we can; because, all-too-soon, we'll be complaining about the cold and wind soon enough. And don't forget those tools of the frigid winter: ice scrapers and snow shovels. Those days are headed our way and there's nothing we can do, aside from relocating to a tropical climate, about changing that fact.

Just typing those words sent a sudden chill up my spine. Get outside and play in the heat. Remember to take frequent breaks and stay hydrated. And, most importantly, don't forget the sunscreen! If the hot weather bothers you, stay inside and keep cool. You'll soon have your day in the snow!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy! 



I've Been Hit!

Well, not physically attacked, that is! My personal computer at home is fine; I'm posting this entry from there now. My netbook, where I publish most of what I submit here has been brutally assaulted by one of those nasty computer viruses that plague the cyberspace and, in turn, are a royal pain in the ass for us all. I guess it was bound to happen, sooner or later. Perhaps, I'm fortunate that it wasn't before now.

This past Sunday morning, when I logged onto my wi-fi connection, I was immediately confronted by a detailed letter, addressed to me, from the Department of Justice/Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) informing me that I was guilty of offenses against the U. S. Code of Criminal Conduct. I had exactly 72 hours to pay a $200 fine through a prepaid card account with MoneyPak, a legitimate prepaid card company. If I failed to comply, I would be subject to criminal prosecution with obligatory prison time and excessive fines. This infestation is known as FBI-MoneyPak Ransomware.

I immediately knew this was a hoax and that I'd been hit. For starters, the letter is grammatically  incorrect. It's written by someone with a substandard education. Secondly, the author(s) obviously learned the English language under British, not American tutelage. Finally, the email address listed in the letter: "fine@fbi.gov" is completely bogus. I sent an email there and it was returned as undeliverable immediately.

Now, almost two days later issue still isn't resolved. My netbook remains infected. This will be a problem within the next several days as I am scheduled to be on the road. If there's any lapse in publishing here, you'll know the reason why.

My purpose in sharing this information with you is twofold. First, if you want to check your computers to see if you've been hit, use your search engine of choice. Type in the words "FBI MoneyPak malware/ransomware" for possible solutions. Or, you can go directly to this link for a download to clean up your device: http://www.anvisoft.com/wiki/how-to-remove-fbi-moneypak.html. I'm hoping to spare as many of you as possible my sorrows. A few moments of prevention may safe a future headache.

Lastly, even through all of this, I sincerely pity the poor, miserable person(s) who created this virus. I truly feel sorry for them. First, obviously, they have no life. Why else would they waste their time on such a stupid undertaking. Second, to create such harm for others, they're extremely miserable. They want others to share their hell. Thirdly, they evidently have no self-esteem or self-worth. The only way they can feel important is through such malicious pranks. I'm so thankful that my own life isn't so empty and meaningless. Otherwise, they'd be gainfully employed.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Update: At 1:32 a.m. (EST), I have successfully circumnavigated this invasion of my netbook! It didn't cost me one damn cent! I used the resources listed above. Triumph over the malcontents who designed this scam! They didn't succeed in fooling me!

Camera Shy...?

Many names and phrases have been used to describe me. Some are flattering and others are, well; shall we say not so flattering. Regardless of the nature or intent of these descriptions, camera shy has never been one of those. It's not like I'm so narcissistic that I think that every time someone turns on their camera it's automatically all about me. It's not that at all. It's merely that whether clothed or nude, I don't run and hide the moment the lens is focused. Nor do I make any attempt to conceal or cover-up my nakedness.

Also, I'm not so vain as to even entertain the thought that I possess a buff physique or am even exceptionally handsome. I'm realistic enough to know that I'm neither of those. I'm an average looking man with a very slim build. I workout regularly but I'm no bodybuilder. I have a decent and respectable pair of low-hangers but aside from that fact, I really have no other distinguishing physical characteristics. In other words, no real reason to be naked in front of a camera.

No reason, that is, except for the known fact that I am a naturist/nudist same gender loving man. I have enough confidence in not only my body, but also my nudity and my sexuality, that I don't run away from a camera. I am a proud man with no body shame. At the same time, I'm honest and realistic in my knowledge that my nude body isn't one that will ever grace the cover of magazines.

I'm well aware of my physical flaws and imperfections. All of us, even the most famous and glamorous, have our respective deficiencies. None of us are perfect in body or mind. This is just human nature. So, rather than pretend, I accept this and move on. In my nudity, what is visible to all is precisely the man that I am. Aside from my facial and head hair, I don't alter my appearance in the least bit. What genetics and nature has created is exactly what I'm about.

Personally, I find it pointless and a complete waste of energy and time to even attempt to cosmetically change my physical being. First, it goes against my nature as a nudist. I am the man that I am, naturally. My body is me, it's a part of what makes me unique. Second, why bother to conceal or cover-up any deviation from the norm? Eventually, reality will be obvious at some point or the other. I just go with what I've been endowed. Part of the attraction of nudity (for me, at least) is the realness of not hiding behind the artificial covering of clothing. Why add another false illusion into the mix?

Finally, my most blatant difference from most other men is my Deafness. There's no way that I can alter or hide that fact; not that I would ever entertain that notion. So I've no inclination to conceal a mere mole, scar or blemish when an important element of me being me, a Deaf queer man, is apparent to all those around me.

That's why I have no problem being nude in front of a camera. I have accepted and am comfortable with myself being the man that I am. I'm just me as me. I can't change the way that I am.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy! 

Nude Recreation Week/Gay Nudists Day: July 14, 2012

AQUANUDES

Today is the next-to-the-last day of Nude Recreation Week, 2012. During this time period, this week-long celebration, also falls Gay Nudists Day, July 14, every year. This is a special day set aside exclusively to honor queer naturists. Those of us who are same gender loving and who embrace the natural life. Our day to rejoice and revel in us being us, the men that we are!

Regardless if we're an indoor person or an outdoors man, this is our day to shine! No matter if we're scholarly or athletic, quiet or outgoing, get nude and invite a friend to join you! Ask someone that you love to experience the naturist/nudist lifestyle and join you in freedom from the burden and hassle of clothes. Who knows, they may decide to become an ardent nudist themselves!

There's DEAFinitely some truth to the old proverb: "You learn something new every day." In researching this post, I discovered that there's even a banner to represent Gay Nudists Day. It consists of the standard rainbow flag of the six colors of the rainbow with the letter "N" signifying the word (in English) for naturist or nudity (or naked) located in the center. This is depicted below.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Gay Nudist Flag

Nude Recreation Week: Social Events

Cards

Cocktails

Cooking

Nude Recreation Week: Personal Development

Fitness/Stretching

Reading

Travel

Nude Recreation Week: The Arts

Dance

Photography

Art

Nude Recreation Week: Sports

Football

Cycling

Soccer

Nude Recreation Week, July 9 - 15, 2012

National Nude Recreation Week is July 9 - 15, 2012! This time is set aside by the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR) to encourage all people to engage in at least one recreation experience while nude. It is no coincidence that this occasion is observed during the National Parks and Recreation Month and at the height of the summer season. Many people associate recreation with outdoor activities and events.

Recreation consists of the activities, projects, classes engaged in during our leisure time for relaxation, enjoyment, personal development or fitness. Recreation my be quality time alone or in a social setting. It can be active, passive or a combination of both. The different types of recreational endeavors range from the competitive to the stimulating and offer something for everyone; many who occasionally aren't even aware that what they're doing is actually recreation.

This week, we'll celebrate different aspects of recreation that are available for exploration.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

The Naked Olympian

Louis Antoine Smith, the 21-year-old Olympic gymnast from the United Kingdom, along with several other British Olympians, have posed nude in this month's Cosmopolitan UK, in the interest of charity. Smith shows off his trim body for EveryMan, an appeal for the UK's Institute of Cancer Research to raise both awareness and funds to fight prostate and testicular cancers.

Smith, who won a Bronze Medal in the Beijing Olympics in 2008, has remarked that posing nude didn't bother him one bit. He's quite proud of his body and not shy about his nudity. Aside from his Olympic aspirations, Smith's other interest includes fashion. Enough said.

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

 

ENDependence!

ENDependence: total independence from the burden, drudgery and hassle of having to wear clothes. The complete freedom to be your natural self without the pretense of garments that conceal who we really are, physically. The liberation of body, mind and soul from having to hide behind the artificial facade of fabrics that only confine us while restricting our spirits.

ENDependence: our emancipation from the chains that keep us slaves to the fashion industry. We no longer have to carry around the baggage of "what-to-wear." We are now truly "free-to-be-me." We're finally able to experience all the joys of the summer season because we don't have to waste valuable time at malls and stores looking to buy something to wear.

ENDependence: we're not bound by the status or the exclusiveness of the outward appearances of socio-economic constraints. While we're naked, we're all the same. There's no difference between the "haves" and the "have-nots." There's no pressure to "keep-up-with-the-Joneses" or anyone else for that matter. Our respective incomes don't make the man; we're all equal when clothed with our own skin. Wealth, or lack thereof, is not a basis for judgment.







ENDependence: the ability to stand out as ourselves with dignity and pride. We don't have to conform to the dictates or expectations of others. We're independent of the perceived notion that we're tied to the artificially imposed conventions of a society that uses this as a tool of control. We march to our own drummer and not the beat of the masses.

Break free and celebrate your personal ENDependence!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!

Happy Holiday!

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

Be safe! Be careful! Have fun!

Peace! Get naked. Enjoy!