Voltare -> RE: How do you know if (1/18/2004 2:47:37 AM)
|
Just a few thoughts, both Sherri, Suz, and Estring have very good points all around. Suz is quite right - rude is rude. If the person (Dominant or submissive, doesn't matter) cannot demonstrate basic courtesy, manners, and follow through with obligations on a first date - why would you expect any better in the future? If I show up two hours late to a job interview, and snarl and sneer at the person doing the interview, I certainly wouldn't expect to get the job. Nothing in the lifestyle (that I have experienced) condones rude, thoughtless, or poor manners in vanilla situations. Don't be surprised to find men and women (Dominants and submissives alike) who ask 'should I bring my bag' as many who use personal ads aren't exactly looking for long term, romantic relationships. A few warning signs are: Certain times you can call - if the person says you should not call them after six PM due to (fill in the blank) or they will not give you a home phone number, take it as a warning sign. The reason may be innoculous, but taken in context, it could be an indication that the person isn't single Early discussions on intimate preferences - granted most of us are here looking for others who share our kink. If you're looking for a play partner, or an occasional lover, that's great - be honest about it, and demand others be honest about it as well. Not everyone feels the same way about sex, of course. Usually I bring the topic of tastes, kinks, and interests early on, as I believe my own to rest squarely in the 'extreme' zone, and I don't wish for a woman to be shocked if I am to mention (two months later) that I plan to do a play-rape scenerio, and bring a knife and six of my best guy friends along for the show. There is no 'set' rule as to how soon, is too soon - other then your instinct. If it feels rushed or pushy, tell him/her to back off. If they dont, don't meet em. There's simply too many other potentially good people out there. Money - This is a VERY tricky subject, and I bring it up because it can be a real headache online. If you're talking to someone who would love to meet, but gosh 400$ is just too much for them to pay to fly/drive to see you, then maybe meeting is simply too expensive a venture for this person. Again, no hard and fast rules here - but be wary, as some of the con artists online have been doing this for years, virtually unstoppable, as there's nothing 'illegal' about asking someone online for money to help pay for an emergency surgery for blah blah blah when they're really going to go partying with the cash you give them. For my part, I tend to take a woman to a resturant for a first date, or offer to cook at my home if she's so inclined (and we both feel comfortable - this can be a big no no as well.) I generally expect to pay for the first date, within reason, and if I can't afford a night painting the town red, I am up front about it. A date doesn't have to cost 200$ for fine dining and dancing. Ultimately, expect to pay your way, and when someone asks you to pay for them - BE CAREFUL. Prior Relationships - this can be a very touchy subject, but nobody knows what kind of person you're about to date, better then that person! Ask about their last couple girlfriends/boyfriends. If they get touchy on the subject, I suggest being cautious - it can be a sign that the relationship either didn't end, or it didn't end the way they wished it to. Trust your instincts, but don't give an interrogation either. If their last significant other was three years ago, yet the person is still sighing about how perfet it all was and how she still bakes his favorite cookies on his birthday, be cautious. Drugs, Drinks, and Safe Sex - TALK ABOUT IT!! ASK about their tobacco, and drug habits. Ask how much they like to drink. YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS STUFF. As if they practice safe sex (if the conversations have included an element of sex) and make your own opinions clear on it!! I am not trying to judge others for their lifestyle choices - but I will make it clear that these are important choices that should be discussed in the context of a new relationship. Other Romantic Interests - it's simple, ask if they have a girlfriend/boyfriend already. On a first meeting, there shouldn't be any expectation of exclusivity, but if the person's saying that they were dating a man/woman for five years, and have taken a month's break to explore - you should know this. Also, the rules in BDSM and D/s tend to be different from vanilla, so ask about polyarmorous relationships (other partners/lovers.) Ask if they expect fidelity or monogamy, and tell them your views on this too. There are certainly dozens and dozens of other issues that are all pertinent to a first meeting of course, and my advice is my own - I don't expect others to find it answering all, or even any questions. The best resource for finding the right person, is you. If it feels right, roll with it - with your eyes wide open. Happy hunting! Stephan
|
|
|
|