RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (Full Version)

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Archer -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/26/2007 12:52:52 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: liljoy

Archer,...
i mean no disrespect at all i'm honestly wanting to understand Your reasons

quote:




LA caught the reason easily and completely for my having this rule, she (Elegant) is my property and basic manners say no intimate touching my property without permission whout reguard to gender, orintation, or power orientation. I view her as my second body.

I have no problem giving that permission at all, I think the total number ofdeclined hugs would still be in the low 30's over 8 years of being together.
I have the rule and enforce it fairly across the board anyone in a BDSM setting has to ask unless they have blanket permission (about 4 people I think). Slave's can ask, submissives can ask, vanillas visiting the BDSM club can ask, dominants can ask.

I've seen those folks who use the protocol as a way to exert a power trip over other people, and that always bothers me, and I'm not so dense as to think some folks won't view my protocol as being that way as well. I'm willing to live with that.

I would say 99% of the time it's a quick "May I??" with body language "Certainly." But should someone move in a way to hug her without asking first I will certainly set in a little and give them a look that says "You have violated my person" usually that is followed by "Oh I'm so sorry I lost my head for a second May I????" Yes you may.

BTW the same respect is always offered the other way by me.
I even ask unattached submissives if I may hug them. (Usually with body language, a simple opening ofmy arms with a hesitation before moving in for the hug)

It's not my body I'm going to ask the person who owns it before I hug.

Hope that makes a bit more sense, if not ask for more clarification, please.




Rover -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/26/2007 2:35:37 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: PAcpllooking

I am no one to tell anyone anything.
If you really read what I said in all my posts you will see that, to put it simply, I am saying that everyone needs to respect others space and wishes. Nothing more nothing less.
I wonder why you are so defensive and question my experience?

William


Sometimes a short memory can be a blessing.  Sometimes it can be a curse.  In this instance, you seem to be cursed with the inability to recall what you said a few short days ago (two, to be precise). 
 
The references to personal space were privided to you by others, including myself.  And I take umbrage with your assertion that it was "nothing more, nothing less".  Just so we're clear, here's what you said two days ago.

quote:

ORIGINAL: PAcpllooking

Yes there is an etiquette that should be followed.
If he is alone Dom to Dom its the typical handshake thing.
If he is with a sub::
First off do not extend a hand or attempt to touch or talk to another Doms Sub. Talk to the Dom and let his sub react to you. The sub may be under restrictions and you may get them introuble if you make such a gesture and she responds. In some cases even is you touch them without them letting you they can be in trouble.
Never communicate directly with his sub without permission
Respect how he treats his sub no matter how he does
Dont ask the sub for anything unless it is offered by the Dom
Respect the fact that the sub may not look you in the eye
Focus on the dynamic between them and respect it
Always err on the side of conservatisim when not sure how to interact with a Doms sub.
I have seen Doms bad mouth other Doms, hell I have been on the receiving side of that and your right it is highschool stuff and to me a sign of weakness. If he has to bad mouth  someone in the hopes of bagging a sub then he must not be very secure.


Let's all count together the protocols you say should be followed:

1.  Doms should greet one another with a handshake.
 
I have many male Dominant friends that I greet with a hug.  Are you telling me that we're behaving inappropriately?  Because it sure seems that you are.  I'm sure you mean well, but it kinda makes people think less of you when you try to tell them what they should do.

2.  Do not attempt to shake hands with male submissives.

Why not?  I shake hands with male submissives all the time, and have done so for years.  Not once (ever) has anyone had a problem with that.  Most of the time you can't tell who is a submissive and who is a Dominant anyway.  You want trouble?  Go ahead and make uninformed assumptions about who is Dominant and who is submissive and who owns who, and see how quickly you end up with a drink in your lap.  Personally, I treat everyone as my equal.  That way no one can complain that I'm treating anyone badly or like a second class citizen. 

3.  Never speak directly to a submissive.

Believe it or not, most submissives are not wearing neon signs that identify them as submissives.  That kinda puts you in a pickle, since you'd have to ask them if they were submissive but in order to do so you'd have to speak directly to them.  Kind of a Catch-22, don't you think?  Really, I think it's more offensive for someone like yourself to assume that submissives aren't interactive creatures, or capable of carrying on a conversation, or beneath your ability to address them directly.  It's been my experience that people who treat submissives in that manner quickly wear out their welcome. 

4.  Do not touch a submissive without permission.

Now here's something we can both agree upon. 

5.  Respect how he treats his submissive, and their dynamic.

Something else we can agree upon.
 
William, I can only offer you a bit of my own experience and advice.  If you embrace that kind of attitude, your version of "the one true way", you'll offend people and find yourself disappointed and isolated.  Come to think of it, that's exactly what you've expressed.

quote:

 
It seems like today it is more a social event and everyone just hugs and kisses all over the place. My slave is under strict orders not to let anyone touch her or to look into another Doms eye unless I approve it. That also means other subs touching her also.


And that's great, William.  But as you are finding out, it doesn't work too well in the real world.  And you just can't expect everyone to abide by your personal preferences in order to make you happy.  If you want to march to the beat of different drummer, then I say drum on... more power to you!!!  But don't complain when you find out that no one is following you.  If everyone is being social, you'll either have to be social with them or be anti-social by yourself.

You complain about "the lifestyle today" as if you've been active in the community for quite some time.  And yet you're out of step with socially accepted behavior.  Something just doesn't jive here, William.  I've been pretty active in the community for quite a while as well, on a local, regional and national level.  The acceptable standard of behavior you seem so offended by has been in existence for as long as I can recall (ie: it predates me).  So just how long and deep is your social experience with lifestyle communities, such that there was a different level of socially acceptable behavior?

quote:

 
I have interacted with groups in Illinois, California, Nevada and Penn. all had the same flavor to them.


If everyone else has a different idea of what constitutes socially acceptable behavior, maybe they can't all be wrong.  Maybe they're not the problem.  Maybe it's you.  And the question still remains as to where and how you ever got the idea that it is, or was, any different.  Obviously it was not from any real time groups or community.
 
John




Travelino -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/26/2007 9:34:07 PM)


quote:

ORIGINAL: Rover

quote:

ORIGINAL: PAcpllooking

I am no one to tell anyone anything.
If you really read what I said in all my posts you will see that, to put it simply, I am saying that everyone needs to respect others space and wishes. Nothing more nothing less.
I wonder why you are so defensive and question my experience?

William


Sometimes a short memory can be a blessing. Sometimes it can be a curse. In this instance, you seem to be cursed with the inability to recall what you said a few short days ago (two, to be precise).

The references to personal space were privided to you by others, including myself. And I take umbrage with your assertion that it was "nothing more, nothing less". Just so we're clear, here's what you said two days ago.

quote:

ORIGINAL: PAcpllooking

Yes there is an etiquette that should be followed.
If he is alone Dom to Dom its the typical handshake thing.
If he is with a sub::
First off do not extend a hand or attempt to touch or talk to another Doms Sub. Talk to the Dom and let his sub react to you. The sub may be under restrictions and you may get them introuble if you make such a gesture and she responds. In some cases even is you touch them without them letting you they can be in trouble.
Never communicate directly with his sub without permission
Respect how he treats his sub no matter how he does
Dont ask the sub for anything unless it is offered by the Dom
Respect the fact that the sub may not look you in the eye
Focus on the dynamic between them and respect it
Always err on the side of conservatisim when not sure how to interact with a Doms sub.
I have seen Doms bad mouth other Doms, hell I have been on the receiving side of that and your right it is highschool stuff and to me a sign of weakness. If he has to bad mouth someone in the hopes of bagging a sub then he must not be very secure.


Let's all count together the protocols you say should be followed:

1. Doms should greet one another with a handshake.

I have many male Dominant friends that I greet with a hug. Are you telling me that we're behaving inappropriately? Because it sure seems that you are. I'm sure you mean well, but it kinda makes people think less of you when you try to tell them what they should do.

2. Do not attempt to shake hands with male submissives.

Why not? I shake hands with male submissives all the time, and have done so for years. Not once (ever) has anyone had a problem with that. Most of the time you can't tell who is a submissive and who is a Dominant anyway. You want trouble? Go ahead and make uninformed assumptions about who is Dominant and who is submissive and who owns who, and see how quickly you end up with a drink in your lap. Personally, I treat everyone as my equal. That way no one can complain that I'm treating anyone badly or like a second class citizen.

3. Never speak directly to a submissive.

Believe it or not, most submissives are not wearing neon signs that identify them as submissives. That kinda puts you in a pickle, since you'd have to ask them if they were submissive but in order to do so you'd have to speak directly to them. Kind of a Catch-22, don't you think? Really, I think it's more offensive for someone like yourself to assume that submissives aren't interactive creatures, or capable of carrying on a conversation, or beneath your ability to address them directly. It's been my experience that people who treat submissives in that manner quickly wear out their welcome.

4. Do not touch a submissive without permission.

Now here's something we can both agree upon.

5. Respect how he treats his submissive, and their dynamic.

Something else we can agree upon.

William, I can only offer you a bit of my own experience and advice. If you embrace that kind of attitude, your version of "the one true way", you'll offend people and find yourself disappointed and isolated. Come to think of it, that's exactly what you've expressed.

quote:


It seems like today it is more a social event and everyone just hugs and kisses all over the place. My slave is under strict orders not to let anyone touch her or to look into another Doms eye unless I approve it. That also means other subs touching her also.


And that's great, William. But as you are finding out, it doesn't work too well in the real world. And you just can't expect everyone to abide by your personal preferences in order to make you happy. If you want to march to the beat of different drummer, then I say drum on... more power to you!!! But don't complain when you find out that no one is following you. If everyone is being social, you'll either have to be social with them or be anti-social by yourself.

You complain about "the lifestyle today" as if you've been active in the community for quite some time. And yet you're out of step with socially accepted behavior. Something just doesn't jive here, William. I've been pretty active in the community for quite a while as well, on a local, regional and national level. The acceptable standard of behavior you seem so offended by has been in existence for as long as I can recall (ie: it predates me). So just how long and deep is your social experience with lifestyle communities, such that there was a different level of socially acceptable behavior?

quote:


I have interacted with groups in Illinois, California, Nevada and Penn. all had the same flavor to them.


If everyone else has a different idea of what constitutes socially acceptable behavior, maybe they can't all be wrong. Maybe they're not the problem. Maybe it's you. And the question still remains as to where and how you ever got the idea that it is, or was, any different. Obviously it was not from any real time groups or community.

John


I wonder, as I read the posts, if there may some sort of generation gap, going on among the postee's. For the mostpart, I agree with older poster's comments and suggestions of how more dominant people behave, amongst each other(both close friends(hugs), and new people(nod/handshake). Some of the comments are reminiscent of the early stages of the Leather community, from what I have been able understand, thus far. Back then, "respect" was respected, due to the consequences of any other actions. Handshakes are a manly thing to do. Nods, in someones direction, however slight, may have been a sign of respect. Now, 20-30-40 years later, and with the help of the internet, things have be bastardized to the extent that most newer people are floundering around, looking for something to grasp on (etiquette, protocol, et al) . I was speaking with a older Leatherman, and he told me that he(at one time) could walk into ANY club, and know *exactly* who was a top, who was a bottom, and what any person in the club was into. Now, he is lost, when he walks into a club. During the times that he *did* know who was who, their was mutual respect amongst the tops, and the bottoms where definitely off limits. This, of course, was when the scene was male only. As the time passes, things change, and origins get watered down. The newer people get to make the best of the watered down beverage of the Lifestyle, and those in it.

I choose to respect all, equally, and keep in mind that submissives (male or female) may be someone else's significant other, and treat them as such. Granted, I have slipped in the past, due to ignorance, and it has never happened the same way twice. Also, since I am more serious in my journey, I will likely be swayed by the older ways.

Enough rambling. Thanks for reading this.

Travelino




MasterMataeo -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/26/2007 11:38:04 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: tr8nmyholes

Just a quick question about what is deemed appropriate behavior between Doms/Masters and whethere there is any type of etiquette that is commonly observed or expected.

I am brand-spanking-new to CM and actually did meet a local Dom for coffee last night. He is new to CM himself, but certainly not to the lifestyle of BDSM. Let's also say that coffee was not the only thing that was served up hot last night.

Today, I receive emails from a Dom whom I have never communicated with before, warning me to stay away from the Dom I met in person last night. When requesting that he substantiate his 'friendly warning' and allegation, he simply failed to respond further. So, I am left with the impression that I am looking at a petty case of bad-mouthing someone that he did not even know.

How common and how acceptable is this type of bad-mouthing behavior amongst Doms/Masters on CM?

Personally, I found it rather reminiscant of the highschool yard.



sounds like a one-night stand set up ,, the dom useing a differnt s/n
but as far as the bad mouthing ,, that is just like a highschool yard,,
any good Dom/Master would do no such thing,
as far as Dom/Dom Etiquette there are many rules,,




Rover -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 4:28:33 AM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: Travelino

Now, 20-30-40 years later, and with the help of the internet, things have be bastardized to the extent that most newer people are floundering around, looking for something to grasp on (etiquette, protocol, et al) .


See, we're in agreement on that issue.  Problem is, we're (seemingly) coming to completely different conclusions.  
 
I've been around the block a time or two and traveled a fair bit to know what etiquette has been in existence for quite a while, and I can assure you that common etiquette did not differ from what you find today.  I know and have spoken to people who were around thirty and forty years ago in the naescent het/pansexual era, and they tell me it did not differ substantially from what we find today.  So if it's your contention that today's etiquette differs from the gay Leatherman era of the 1940's - 1960's, then we might find some common agreement.  But if it's your contention that today's etiquette differs from the het/pansexual era of the late 1960's/early 1970's on, then I'd suggest that you're mistaken. 
 
You see, that internet is a double edged sword.  The information you get is only as good as the source.  And in today's era, many good people believe what they find on the internet without really knowing its veracity.  There are even studies on this phenomena. 
 
Bottom line is that the "bastardization" is not the evolution of het/pansexual etiquette.  It's the creation of a Leather history that did not exist (and in this case the accompanying etiquette).  If it helps any, I used to believe a lot of silly things that I found on the internet.  Until I learned that they weren't true.  So you have plenty of company in that regard.
 
John
 
P.S. -  You would be well served not to always equate chronological age with either the length or breadth of experience. 




GhitaAmati -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 5:08:50 AM)

I gotta agree with Rover on the age doesnt always equate experiance....I hate that....I may be young but darn it I started learning my profession when I was 4 and my grandfather started teaching me to build things....and still today I lose construction jobs to men 10 years older than me who barely know how to swing a hammer.

Sorry...personal rant of the day....

This is another one of those, sure your local group may have specific protocols on these things but not everyones group has the same protocols.....There is NO general "one true way" anywhere and with anything! Proper etiquette? Try standing back and observing for a short bit when you are new..it wont take you long to see how others act towards each other. Proper ettiqute would be not telling everyone they are wrong. When its your house and your household, you can make the rules, until then, you gotta follow someone elses...if you cant figure out the rules with a few moments of careful observation (rarely have I had this trouble) just use common coutesy to everyone and politly explain you are new. 99% of the time you will have made a new friend who is more than willing to show you the ropes in their community. We are lucky here that most of the time locally people use the armbands to signify Top/bottom, but not always, I generally resort to the manners my grandmother taught me and call everyone Sir or Ma'am until Im told otherwise.




MasterLordguru -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 5:26:07 AM)

Age in body, is not Age in mind or spirit. Weather some believe it or not, some people are born with an innate flame, a bright halo or dark pit that they draw from. Some call it aura. Some call it transedent light. Others just call it the old spirit.

The Old Guard is experience. Experience as the years have been lived, the life has been fulfilled and no matter what one says.. there is no substitution to expereince. One can have profound depth and an untapped potential to be great, but in order to get there, one must live life and experience. ANd those who have lived it for 20-30-40 years, have it over someone who has been in it for 2 years, 5 years or 10 years.

What I believe we as the "Dominants" differ in is what road our expereinces took us. Some believe in an ordained rule that draws from religious principals. Others draw from a mindset that comes from fantastical imagination and belief. And others take a practical approach to their Dominance. Yes, Dominance is one thing, To Dominate is another.

Reading this blog, I just reinforce my own belief that no matter what, we all have different perspectives and it is not my job to convince others of my way of mentality when one is set in their ways. I however am a believer that you accept, respect and give a nod of appreciation to the different paths that lead to the path of expereince.

It is strange but the most disrespect I have ever recieved from any are from some of those who have lived the life for countless of years and believe my approach may be to lenient or to down the road. I have even been told that what I am about is not what is the core of the lifestyle. But like all things that exist, change is an inevitable outcome.  One must learn adaptability to the world we reside in today. Because if one doesnt adapt to the world around them, then one takes the chance of being chafed like the wheat that is dying out on the fields. But again... that is an opinion.. My opinion.. and nothing more to others who are not me.

I am enjoying this thread.

M.L.G




GhitaAmati -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 5:30:37 AM)

quote:

I have even been told that what I am about is not what is the core of the lifestyle.


Im sorry but this one phrase gave me pause.....what exactly is the "core" of the lifestyle? In my experiance its different for everyone....there are as many reasons for being into this lifestyle as there are people in it.....




LuckyAlbatross -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 7:19:37 AM)

Maybe I'm just an exception, but I've always held very tightly to proper social etiquette, and know very well how to maneuver when others don't while simultaneously not making them look foolish (or making them look foolish but in a very subversive way so that they get the message and get to save face).

However, I've never seen what this has to do with being Ds or not, since I learned it all in the "vanilla world" and it works perfectly well anywhere that I've taken it.  Except when dumbasses try to suggest that orientation = status and that somehow not only can they divine the orientation of every person in a room immediately, but that we need to act differently towards them all.

That's where the problems arise.




Travelino -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 8:04:39 AM)

After reviewing my own post to this thread, I neglected to mention that there may be conflict with *personal* BDSM , compared to *local group*, compared to the *general community" worldwide. There was mention of "core", earlier on. I am sure that core is much different from any individual's interpretation of what it is to be *core*, and what it originally meant. If memory serves, Guy Baldwin was referenced often, at a Protocol/Etiquette in BDSM lecture I attended. I have yet to do any serious research into Mr. Baldwin, or his experiences in the Leather community. I am hesitant to mention that he may be a good reference, for what the protocol/etiquette for dominants( in real life) to other dominants, for how things actually were at a certain timeperiod (some 30+ years ago, I believe). Today, though, it appears that the "core", that was mentioned(which may include behaviour patterns towards others in the Lifestyle), has change significantly, with hints of some of the *basics* that an older, hard *core*, had developed to be. Since I have never lived during the early times of BDSM-becoming-more-public years, I am unable to make the comparison to today's *core*. I do have my own *core*, and it changes as ignorance is slowly removed. My core is based mostly in honesty and respect, and is what I offer to most anyone(in and out of the Lifestyle). How I do this, is unique to myself. How others handle themselves, will be up to them, and may indeed be similar shades of the color I have painted. It seems that I may have to mention that my opinions stated here apply to real-life interaction with others in the community, vs. pixelated-world on the net.

Travelino
~edited for typo's and punctuation~




kai13 -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 9:07:19 AM)

I would argue that if your decoder ring is making sense of less than half of the posts on the boards it is working properly, providing it makes sense of this one, of course.




Vampyrefledgling -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 2:12:50 PM)

In my humble opinion, etiquette between Dom/mes should be the same as it would be between any two strangers meeting for the first time. As I understand it, some Dom/mes do not even wish it to be obvious that their submissive is such. He/she may not order for him/herself or what have you, but interactions with others may or may not be hindered. Perhaps the Dom/me enjoys watching the sub interact with others all the while maintaing his mandates.

However, I do believe that Dom/mes should maintain a respectful distance from each other's subs so as not to infringe on any territory. I believe that to be an area in which Dom/mes must be very careful, especially when the sub is in 'training.'

~Fledgling




MistressSassy66 -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 2:38:44 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: tr8nmyholes

Just a quick question about what is deemed appropriate behavior between Doms/Masters and whethere there is any type of etiquette that is commonly observed or expected.

I am brand-spanking-new to CM and actually did meet a local Dom for coffee last night. He is new to CM himself, but certainly not to the lifestyle of BDSM. Let's also say that coffee was not the only thing that was served up hot last night.

Today, I receive emails from a Dom whom I have never communicated with before, warning me to stay away from the Dom I met in person last night. When requesting that he substantiate his 'friendly warning' and allegation, he simply failed to respond further. So, I am left with the impression that I am looking at a petty case of bad-mouthing someone that he did not even know.

How common and how acceptable is this type of bad-mouthing behavior amongst Doms/Masters on CM?

Personally, I found it rather reminiscant of the highschool yard.


Sounds like a school yard to Me also.

If I were to give My opinion(asked opinion at that) on another Dom/me it would be from personal experience only.Anything else is...Gossip...and I dont gossip.

I am also respectful of Titles.
I tend to call Instynctive,Sir or Him when chatting with His girl.
He has always called Me Mistress.
Same with MamaDomme... One of the things I like about Them most
is the respect WE have for each Other.







instynctive -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 5:48:23 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: MistressSassy66
Sounds like a school yard to Me also.

If I were to give My opinion(asked opinion at that) on another Dom/me it would be from personal experience only.Anything else is...Gossip...and I dont gossip.

I am also respectful of Titles.
I tend to call Instynctive,Sir or Him when chatting with His girl.
He has always called Me Mistress.
Same with MamaDomme... One of the things I like about Them most
is the respect WE have for each Other.



My respect can and will travel "both directions".. ask any sub I've chatted with here, and they will tell you that.  However, just because someone considers themselves a "dom/me" doesn't mean they automatically gets My respect.  A P/person has to earn My respect... as Mistress Sassy has (She is the first One I met both here and RL)... and vicariously, MamaDomme... BossyShoeBitch and SimplyMichael are two others... LadyKristie, FeralCat just rock.... why?  Because the respect has flowed in both directions... bandit, seekesonly, some1handle are submissive personalities that have really clicked with Me as well.. all fantastic people... then there's CrimsonMoan.. love that crazy girl. :-)

While My list of P/people I've met and enjoy the company of is quite extensive (please don't get mad if I didn't give Y/you a shout-out", my list of those who suck is fourteen times longer.

I'm rambling.. and need to get in the shower.

Carry on. :-)


Jon




AAkasha -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 7:02:16 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: LuckyAlbatross

Maybe I'm just an exception, but I've always held very tightly to proper social etiquette, and know very well how to maneuver when others don't while simultaneously not making them look foolish (or making them look foolish but in a very subversive way so that they get the message and get to save face).

However, I've never seen what this has to do with being Ds or not, since I learned it all in the "vanilla world" and it works perfectly well anywhere that I've taken it.  Except when dumbasses try to suggest that orientation = status and that somehow not only can they divine the orientation of every person in a room immediately, but that we need to act differently towards them all.

That's where the problems arise.


LA, in your experience, does the "bdsm scene" or culture lack this social skill/"proper social etiquette"  more than any other group, or is it pretty much the same (hit or miss, or not) when compared against other social gatherings or groups? 

Akasha




Stephann -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 9:00:03 PM)

While I can't speak for LA, my own experience is that lifestylers tend to be no more or less well behaved than other groups, in terms of social ettiquette.  In general, groups are sometimes better, sometimes worse, and sometimes better or worse depending on who shows up at a particular time.  Individuals are the same way; some are polite, others not so.

Mr. Manners




LuckyAlbatross -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/27/2007 10:27:09 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: AAkasha
LA, in your experience, does the "bdsm scene" or culture lack this social skill/"proper social etiquette"  more than any other group, or is it pretty much the same (hit or miss, or not) when compared against other social gatherings or groups? 

Akasha

OK in great generalities, I find male doms to be somewhat more uppity, prone to interruption and grandstanding, forward, and presumptuous.  I find the male subs more socially awkward and unable to do basic conversation and negotiation.  I find the females to be more fake and gossipy.  I find the smokers to be a bit more imposing and pushy and overall in general people try to push the rules for their own selfishness all over the place- even when given very very relaxed rules.

But those are vast generalities and on the whole I don't notice much of a difference- most people are polite and fine most of the time.




PAcpllooking -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/29/2007 2:41:42 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: Travelino


quote:

ORIGINAL: Rover

quote:

ORIGINAL: PAcpllooking

I am no one to tell anyone anything.
If you really read what I said in all my posts you will see that, to put it simply, I am saying that everyone needs to respect others space and wishes. Nothing more nothing less.
I wonder why you are so defensive and question my experience?

William


Sometimes a short memory can be a blessing. Sometimes it can be a curse. In this instance, you seem to be cursed with the inability to recall what you said a few short days ago (two, to be precise).

The references to personal space were privided to you by others, including myself. And I take umbrage with your assertion that it was "nothing more, nothing less". Just so we're clear, here's what you said two days ago.

quote:

ORIGINAL: PAcpllooking

Yes there is an etiquette that should be followed.
If he is alone Dom to Dom its the typical handshake thing.
If he is with a sub::
First off do not extend a hand or attempt to touch or talk to another Doms Sub. Talk to the Dom and let his sub react to you. The sub may be under restrictions and you may get them introuble if you make such a gesture and she responds. In some cases even is you touch them without them letting you they can be in trouble.
Never communicate directly with his sub without permission
Respect how he treats his sub no matter how he does
Dont ask the sub for anything unless it is offered by the Dom
Respect the fact that the sub may not look you in the eye
Focus on the dynamic between them and respect it
Always err on the side of conservatisim when not sure how to interact with a Doms sub.
I have seen Doms bad mouth other Doms, hell I have been on the receiving side of that and your right it is highschool stuff and to me a sign of weakness. If he has to bad mouth someone in the hopes of bagging a sub then he must not be very secure.


Let's all count together the protocols you say should be followed:

1. Doms should greet one another with a handshake.

I have many male Dominant friends that I greet with a hug. Are you telling me that we're behaving inappropriately? Because it sure seems that you are. I'm sure you mean well, but it kinda makes people think less of you when you try to tell them what they should do.

2. Do not attempt to shake hands with male submissives.

Why not? I shake hands with male submissives all the time, and have done so for years. Not once (ever) has anyone had a problem with that. Most of the time you can't tell who is a submissive and who is a Dominant anyway. You want trouble? Go ahead and make uninformed assumptions about who is Dominant and who is submissive and who owns who, and see how quickly you end up with a drink in your lap. Personally, I treat everyone as my equal. That way no one can complain that I'm treating anyone badly or like a second class citizen.

3. Never speak directly to a submissive.

Believe it or not, most submissives are not wearing neon signs that identify them as submissives. That kinda puts you in a pickle, since you'd have to ask them if they were submissive but in order to do so you'd have to speak directly to them. Kind of a Catch-22, don't you think? Really, I think it's more offensive for someone like yourself to assume that submissives aren't interactive creatures, or capable of carrying on a conversation, or beneath your ability to address them directly. It's been my experience that people who treat submissives in that manner quickly wear out their welcome.

4. Do not touch a submissive without permission.

Now here's something we can both agree upon.

5. Respect how he treats his submissive, and their dynamic.

Something else we can agree upon.

William, I can only offer you a bit of my own experience and advice. If you embrace that kind of attitude, your version of "the one true way", you'll offend people and find yourself disappointed and isolated. Come to think of it, that's exactly what you've expressed.

quote:


It seems like today it is more a social event and everyone just hugs and kisses all over the place. My slave is under strict orders not to let anyone touch her or to look into another Doms eye unless I approve it. That also means other subs touching her also.


And that's great, William. But as you are finding out, it doesn't work too well in the real world. And you just can't expect everyone to abide by your personal preferences in order to make you happy. If you want to march to the beat of different drummer, then I say drum on... more power to you!!! But don't complain when you find out that no one is following you. If everyone is being social, you'll either have to be social with them or be anti-social by yourself.

You complain about "the lifestyle today" as if you've been active in the community for quite some time. And yet you're out of step with socially accepted behavior. Something just doesn't jive here, William. I've been pretty active in the community for quite a while as well, on a local, regional and national level. The acceptable standard of behavior you seem so offended by has been in existence for as long as I can recall (ie: it predates me). So just how long and deep is your social experience with lifestyle communities, such that there was a different level of socially acceptable behavior?

quote:


I have interacted with groups in Illinois, California, Nevada and Penn. all had the same flavor to them.


If everyone else has a different idea of what constitutes socially acceptable behavior, maybe they can't all be wrong. Maybe they're not the problem. Maybe it's you. And the question still remains as to where and how you ever got the idea that it is, or was, any different. Obviously it was not from any real time groups or community.

John


I wonder, as I read the posts, if there may some sort of generation gap, going on among the postee's. For the mostpart, I agree with older poster's comments and suggestions of how more dominant people behave, amongst each other(both close friends(hugs), and new people(nod/handshake). Some of the comments are reminiscent of the early stages of the Leather community, from what I have been able understand, thus far. Back then, "respect" was respected, due to the consequences of any other actions. Handshakes are a manly thing to do. Nods, in someones direction, however slight, may have been a sign of respect. Now, 20-30-40 years later, and with the help of the internet, things have be bastardized to the extent that most newer people are floundering around, looking for something to grasp on (etiquette, protocol, et al) . I was speaking with a older Leatherman, and he told me that he(at one time) could walk into ANY club, and know *exactly* who was a top, who was a bottom, and what any person in the club was into. Now, he is lost, when he walks into a club. During the times that he *did* know who was who, their was mutual respect amongst the tops, and the bottoms where definitely off limits. This, of course, was when the scene was male only. As the time passes, things change, and origins get watered down. The newer people get to make the best of the watered down beverage of the Lifestyle, and those in it.

I choose to respect all, equally, and keep in mind that submissives (male or female) may be someone else's significant other, and treat them as such. Granted, I have slipped in the past, due to ignorance, and it has never happened the same way twice. Also, since I am more serious in my journey, I will likely be swayed by the older ways.

Enough rambling. Thanks for reading this.

Travelino



Travelino:

Thank you for your posting its right on.
I rarely, if ever, spout off about how long I have been around because it sounds like all the others here online.
Once again thank you

William




Rover -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/30/2007 3:09:22 PM)

William, I put some time and effort into a serious reply that afforded you the opportunity to explain some very curious assertions you made.  Am I to assume by your reply to Travelino (and not to me) that you're choosing not to say any more on this matter? 
 
John




PAcpllooking -> RE: "Etiquette" between Masters (?) (7/31/2007 1:45:50 PM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: Travelino

After reviewing my own post to this thread, I neglected to mention that there may be conflict with *personal* BDSM , compared to *local group*, compared to the *general community" worldwide. There was mention of "core", earlier on. I am sure that core is much different from any individual's interpretation of what it is to be *core*, and what it originally meant. If memory serves, Guy Baldwin was referenced often, at a Protocol/Etiquette in BDSM lecture I attended. I have yet to do any serious research into Mr. Baldwin, or his experiences in the Leather community. I am hesitant to mention that he may be a good reference, for what the protocol/etiquette for dominants( in real life) to other dominants, for how things actually were at a certain timeperiod (some 30+ years ago, I believe). Today, though, it appears that the "core", that was mentioned(which may include behaviour patterns towards others in the Lifestyle), has change significantly, with hints of some of the *basics* that an older, hard *core*, had developed to be. Since I have never lived during the early times of BDSM-becoming-more-public years, I am unable to make the comparison to today's *core*. I do have my own *core*, and it changes as ignorance is slowly removed. My core is based mostly in honesty and respect, and is what I offer to most anyone(in and out of the Lifestyle). How I do this, is unique to myself. How others handle themselves, will be up to them, and may indeed be similar shades of the color I have painted. It seems that I may have to mention that my opinions stated here apply to real-life interaction with others in the community, vs. pixelated-world on the net.

Travelino
~edited for typo's and punctuation~


Gary Baldwin has been around for a long time and is very well known in the San Fran leather community as well as world wide.  He was at Mr. S's Leather
in So Ca the last time I saw him. As far as a one size fits all core with secret handshakes and decoder rings, I dont believe one exists.
This lifestyle has morphed over and over again to not only fit the times but also the individual. Just like anything else.
There are more people interested now who come from many walks of life which will only lend to change. Some good and some bad.
Do I wish that there was more structure then there is, at least in what I have experienced? Yes I do. So my choice us not to interact as much as I once did. But if a question comes up or someone wants information I will offer it.I read other's ideas and comments and enjoy seeing others outlooks even if they dont work for me.
Bottomline is those who feel the need to belittle, puff out their chests, show you how wrong you are or just tell you that you are fake are those who have to boost their own egos abd prove to the world just how superior they are. ::shrugging shoulders::

William 




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