When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (Full Version)

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Worldtravelerxo -> When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 7:12:21 AM)

I've come across a lot of negativity/intolerance towards being monogamous in the BDSM community. While I would never judge anyone for being polyamorous it just isn't for me. I've always been a little bit of a good girl, and I'm not casual about my sexuality. I've had my need for a monogamous relationship be referred to as "not being submissive", "being selfish" and my personal favorite "insisting on monogamy is topping from the bottom." I had someone after the start of pursuing a relationship switch up his tune once he felt I was invested and tell me that he expected me to be fine with him having multiple subs. Maybe it is me, but I just don't have it in me nor do I desire to share my partner. I know this limits the already smaller pool of potentials that are viable options for me because I'm not vanilla but I'd rather not have to settle in order to settle down. As someone who is drawn to certain more classic relationship aspects like traditional gender roles I've often felt almost not kinky/open enough for those into Ds and being not happy and unfulfilled in a vanilla relationship. Has anyone else experienced similar issues? Any guidance? Thank you.




cloudboy -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 7:25:40 AM)


The guy who's with you will want you to be monogamous, but the guys already with someone else will see it as an impediment.

You infer polyamorous types aren't "good" people and are into "casual sex" -- so while you don't like being insulted -- your post kind of returns the favor.




Worldtravelerxo -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 7:30:23 AM)

I didn't intend for it to read that way, I know plenty of poly people and as I said in my posting I don't judge people for being poly. I just feel it isn't right for me personally. Maybe it is how I was raised, maybe we can blame my attending catholic school but certain morals and lifestyle choices wouldn't work for me.




InHisHeart -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 7:46:20 AM)

Fortunately I haven't had that problem in the 2 long term D/s - bdsm relationships I've been in. My former relationship was 20+ years and monogamous, my current relationship (7 years) is also a monogamous relationship. Master has no desire to have another sub. All relationships he's been in have been monogamous relationships.

People telling you you're not being submissive or your topping from the bottom because you want monogamy is BS. Everyone including subs have the right to have the type of relationship they want and if that's monogamy, that's your right and it has nothing to do with not being submissive or topping from the bottom.

The advice I have is stick to your guns, don't settle for less than what you want for your life. If a Dom wants to have more subs then you and he are not compatible and he's not the right Dom for you.

IHH




cloudboy -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 7:48:36 AM)


Cool, no worries.

When men can't have you, they will tend to be insulting. Please don't internalize it.




orgasmdenial12 -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 7:51:54 AM)

I guess it just seems that way sometimes - monogamy is easily the preferred relationship choice of the majority of the scene (and the rest of the world) it's just that we tend to notice those who argue more than those who quietly agree - or those who are trying to convert us, or question us.

I don't think you need to feel defensive about your choice, or that you don't fit in, I know literally hundreds of monogamous kinksters, and only a few poly ones. It's a shame your ex tried to change horses midstream but there are always asshats, on all sides of the fence. If it hadn't been the poly card, it would have been something else.

It's easy to get into arguments when we are seeking confirmation of our own feelings - but when we are confident about what we know and like, we feel comfortable about simply saying 'that's not for me', which is all you need to do when anyone questions you about your preferred relationship structure. Try to remember that, although it may feel to you like you're the only mono in the village, if there were truly that many poly people, no-one would be wanting or trying to convert you.




angelikaJ -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 8:02:19 AM)


quote:

ORIGINAL: Worldtravelerxo

I've come across a lot of negativity/intolerance towards being monogamous in the BDSM community. While I would never judge anyone for being polyamorous it just isn't for me. I've always been a little bit of a good girl, and I'm not casual about my sexuality. I've had my need for a monogamous relationship be referred to as "not being submissive", "being selfish" and my personal favorite "insisting on monogamy is topping from the bottom." I had someone after the start of pursuing a relationship switch up his tune once he felt I was invested and tell me that he expected me to be fine with him having multiple subs. Maybe it is me, but I just don't have it in me nor do I desire to share my partner. I know this limits the already smaller pool of potentials that are viable options for me because I'm not vanilla but I'd rather not have to settle in order to settle down. As someone who is drawn to certain more classic relationship aspects like traditional gender roles I've often felt almost not kinky/open enough for those into Ds and being not happy and unfulfilled in a vanilla relationship. Has anyone else experienced similar issues? Any guidance? Thank you.


My guidance, or advice if you will, is to ignore those who are trying to make you feel less than because you prefer monogamy.
Just delete and block them as usually trying to discuss it will just result in further insult.
And if someone does a bait and switch on you, then he is the one without integrity.




DaddySatyr -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 8:21:27 AM)


I'm going to parse your post a bit. I promise to try not to change what you're saying but, I want to take things, individually.



quote:

ORIGINAL: Worldtravelerxo
I've come across a lot of negativity/intolerance towards being monogamous in the BDSM community.



I've actually noticed a bit more of the converse.



quote:

ORIGINAL: Worldtravelerxo
While I would never judge anyone for being polyamorous it just isn't for me. I've always been a little bit of a good girl, and I'm not casual about my sexuality.



The way this reads, you are judging polyamorous people as being casual about their sexuality. That's not always the case.



quote:

ORIGINAL: Worldtravelerxo
I've had my need for a monogamous relationship be referred to as "not being submissive", "being selfish" and my personal favorite "insisting on monogamy is topping from the bottom." I had someone after the start of pursuing a relationship switch up his tune once he felt I was invested and tell me that he expected me to be fine with him having multiple subs.



This is (for me) the real meet of your post.

We all have our own definitions about what is or isn't submissive/dominant/whatever in this lifestyle. People often forget to add "as far as I'm concerned" or "for me" at the end of such sweeping generalizations.

While this part of your post makes mention of the ol' bait-and-switch, I would like to say that if that is absent, then the statement before it may be applicable. I'm not saying it is; I'm saying it may be. Let me explain:

If you run into some guy who is setting off bells in your head (the "wedding" type; not the "alarm" type) and his profile speaks about polyamory or he tells you so, pretty early on and you decide you might change his mind, then you are topping from the bottom.

I have had some ladies tell me (after the relationship went down in flames) that they thought they could handle my inability to be monogamous or they "just wanted to try it" (as if I'm some lab rat in their little experiment). In both cases, I think they were being manipulative.



quote:

ORIGINAL: Worldtravelerxo
Maybe it is me, but I just don't have it in me nor do I desire to share my partner. I know this limits the already smaller pool of potentials that are viable options for me because I'm not vanilla but I'd rather not have to settle in order to settle down. As someone who is drawn to certain more classic relationship aspects like traditional gender roles I've often felt almost not kinky/open enough for those into Ds and being not happy and unfulfilled in a vanilla relationship. Has anyone else experienced similar issues? Any guidance? Thank you.



There are those who find it very difficult (or impossible) to share their partner. Fair dues.

This will limit your amount of potential partners but remember: your potential partners are those that share your morals and aspirations. You should NEVER settle. Be who you are or the people you meet will fall in love with the person you're portraying.







Screen captures still RULE! Ya feel me?




Worldtravelerxo -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 8:40:41 AM)

Thank you angelikaJ and InHisHeart for your positive words.

DaddySatyr - I'm very very clear and open about who I am and what I'm looking for. I never would enter into or pursue a relationship with someone who wasn't single. I would never try to sway or change someone as I hope they'd show me the same respect.

orgasmdenial12 - maybe it's just bad luck on my part but apart from my one now ex Dom I've had trouble finding someone compatible with me who doesn't want other partners. I think my limits , specifically not being into pain or impact play, is also a major factor in being able to find a monogamous dominant partner.




FieryOpal -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 9:54:28 AM)

If you (all) will humor me and take kinksters out of this discussion momentarily, there is not much difference between the type of person who DOES take intimacy for granted and what you find out in the vanilla world.
I should perhaps mention that I am a by-product of the revolutionary '60s where so-called "free love" ran rampant among "hippies" and "flower children." Not within my own family of origin, but in terms of pop(counter)-cultural influences. I didn't come of age until the mid-'70s, after the Vietnam War ended, but there was still carryover.
My point being, that back then, in order to be considered sexual uninhibited, young women were often pressured to put aside their '50s-style morals and have looser sexual standards.

It was considered "cool" by young people to be swingers and for (married) couples to swap partners--the whole wife-swapping business. I didn't buy into this mostly male-propagated Penthouse Forum mentality, nor into the reactionary feminist response that what was good for the goose was good for the gander. Two wrongs don't make a right, in my book. I've heard it said by others, and I'll reiterate: I don't owe anybody an equal opportunity fuck--never have, never will.

Our sexual preferences are highly personal. Our choice of mate(s) are based on subjective factors entirely of our own choosing. There will always be those who see a dividing line or personal boundary and consider it a challenge to push further or utterly disregard it/them. Insofar as Dominants are concerned, far too many will hone in on Hard Limits specifically for the purpose of disrespecting them. Unless you are into playing this kind of game, there's nothing *cool* about making up your own rules as you go along non-consensually. It's not cool as a vanilla, and it definitely isn't cool in BDSM or any type of D/s-Dominance/submission dynamic.

And no, Satyr, that was NOT cool for any lady of yours to be manipulative about wanting to try to change you in the off-chance she might be "the one" who could turn you around. Back to two wrongs don't make a right.

Stay true to yourself. For us monogamists, monogamy rules.




BecomingV -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 11:36:48 AM)

Those, are known as "boys."
quote:

ORIGINAL: cloudboy


Cool, no worries.

When men can't have you, they will tend to be insulting. Please don't internalize it.





DarkSteven -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 12:16:41 PM)

I'm not sure what you mean by poly.

My sub and I are sexually monogamous and play-polygamous - we play with others at parties and in our home. Just not sexually.

Most of those we know are the same - play is shared with friends but sex is reserved for partners.

That said, I've seen all kinds of things that are casually accepted in the scene. Ironic that, where you live, monogamy isn't one of those.




BecomingV -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 1:50:18 PM)

Sometimes, I can be blunt. I do it when I think it's the most effective method of communication. Usually, when someone has a blind spot. So, as you read, it may bug you, but hang in there... I mean you well.

As a whole, the post reads as annoyance that people are saying things counter to your views. So? That will never stop. And, none of us are entitled to the support, or agreement, of others.

First, flip the attitude, from righteous indignation to increased tolerance on your part, taking a positive view of poly enthusiasts and accept the way that they are right now. People who love something are encouraging you to try it, too. They think it will increase your pleasure. Okay, they're wrong, but can you at least acknowledge that you are being included, encouraged and educated?

It's like repeating, "you have to try my favorite flavor" to a person who is allergic to it. You seem to be seeing this through a negative lens, as if it's all about you. It's not. They talk to everyone that way...all around the BDSM world. They've heard new people saying, "No" to things at first, but later, that changed. Some people show up inhibited. The cheer-leading section creates an environment for freedom and that does make your world better. What they are doing IS encouragement. Give people some time to see that you are holding steady to your course. If it were all about you, then your words might make them stop, but it's not about you.

Quick tip for a future response to, "You need to try Poly" - Really, what made you say that to me? OR Why was that important for you to ask me? Don't answer the question... use one of those. It puts the ball back in their court and in this way, you gain more information... such as... I thought it might make you happy. Not so annoying when you delve beneath the surface.

This works... if you want acceptance, give it first. Your comparison of yourself as a good girl versus poly women... there's danger of nosebleeds way up there. You most definitely do judge them, and as inferior to you. That will attract lots of friends. Not. Some education on the kinks and lifestyles of others may help with an increase in open-mindedness. Lots of problems come from ignorance, and that's fixable.

Have you gone to FetLife to find 1950's groups, or monogamy groups, in your local area? If there are none... create one and see what happens. Find a female, 1950's submissive who is experienced and open to sharing. If she's far from you, all the better. There may be times when you want to say something that would offend people, and then there are consequences. Someone outside the group can offer a different perspective. It's an option.

Finally, and this is why I posted to begin with... you wrote,

"...but I'd rather not have to settle in order to settle down."

That ^^^ has never, and will never, happen to me. I know this because it's not one of my options. You, too, can choose to remove the possibility, or you can continue to see it as your potential future.

Now, we all have blind spots, things we judge and things we need to learn more about. Nothing, that I've highlighted is unique to you, but if you look, there's a common thread. I wrote about the parts that you do have some control over - mainly, attitude. It's okay to be who you are, right now.

Oh, the guy who changed his preference. Yeah, that happens and when posters write here about it, the response is two-fold. One group, wants to skewer the lying bastard. The other group considers misunderstanding, discovery of a new kink or interest that creates profound changes in the person and the possibility that the OP (in general) is complicit in contributing to the drama. While certainly upsetting, the guy did talk to you about it... some of them just go cheat. It's something.

Your goal is long-term monogamy in a 1950's style, D/s relationship. Over time, sexuality changes, health changes... it all changes. Parenthood, natural disasters, economic downturns, war... can make people unrecognizable from who they were "before." What happens if your "He" becomes paralyzed, from the neck down? Are you ready to work full-time, come home and take care of the kids and then take care of him? There are reasons why women are now expected to be providers if they are going to have kids. The 1950's can be a fun fantasy, but it's as high risk as any edge play to enter into it before having lots of savings, work skills and insurance, IMO.

That ^^^ is being supportive. I've seen way too many displaced submissives who thought it was romantic to abdicate financial responsibility and control... and it was. It was all about the romance and had nothing to do with reality, which they learned the hard way. So, a friendly "heads up" about balance.

I wish you all the best.

ETA - spelling error





Worldtravelerxo -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 2:21:58 PM)

T
quote:

ORIGINAL: BecomingV

Sometimes, I can be blunt. I do it when I think it's the most effective method of communication. Usually, when someone has a blind spot. So, as you read, it may bug you, but hang in there... I mean you well.

As a whole, the post reads as annoyance that people are saying things counter to your views. So? That will never stop. And, none of us are entitled to the support, or agreement, of others.

First, flip the attitude, from righteous indignation to increased tolerance on your part, taking a positive view of poly enthusiasts and accept the way that they are right now. People who love something are encouraging you to try it, too. They think it will increase your pleasure. Okay, they're wrong, but can you at least acknowledge that you are being included, encouraged and educated?

It's like repeating, "you have to try my favorite flavor" to a person who is allergic to it. You seem to be seeing this through a negative lens, as if it's all about you. It's not. They talk to everyone that way...all around the BDSM world. They've heard new people saying, "No" to things at first, but later, that changed. Some people show up inhibited. The cheer-leading section creates an environment for freedom and that does make your world better. What they are doing IS encouragement. Give people some time to see that you are holding steady to your course. If it were all about you, then your words might make them stop, but it's not about you.

Quick tip for a future response to, "You need to try Poly" - Really, what made you say that to me? OR Why was that important for you to ask me? Don't answer the question... use one of those. It puts the ball back in their court and in this way, you gain more information... such as... I thought it might make you happy. Not so annoying when you delve beneath the surface.

This works... if you want acceptance, give it first. Your comparison of yourself as a good girl versus poly women... there's danger of nosebleeds way up there. You most definitely do judge them, and as inferior to you. That will attract lots of friends. Not. Some education on the kinks and lifestyles of others may help with an increase in open-mindedness. Lots of problems come from ignorance, and that's fixable.

Have you gone to FetLife to find 1950's groups, or monogamy groups, in your local area? If there are none... create one and see what happens. Find a female, 1950's submissive who is experienced and open to sharing. If she's far from you, all the better. There may be times when you want to say something that would offend people, and then there are consequences. Someone outside the group can offer a different perspective. It's an option.

Finally, and this is why I posted to begin with... you wrote,

"...but I'd rather not have to settle in order to settle down."

That ^^^ has never, and will never, happen to me. I know this because it's not one of my options. You, too, can choose to remove the possibility, or you can continue to see it as your potential future.

Now, we all have blind spots, things we judge and things we need to learn more about. Nothing, that I've highlighted is unique to you, but if you look, there's a common thread. I wrote about the parts that you do have some control over - mainly, attitude. It's okay to be who you are, right now.

Oh, the guy who changed his preference. Yeah, that happens and when posters write here about it, the response is two-fold. One group, wants to skewer the lying bastard. The other group considers misunderstanding, discovery of a new kink or interest that creates profound changes in the person and the possibility that the OP (in general) is complicit in contributing to the drama. While certainly upsetting, the guy did talk to you about it... some of them just go cheat. It's something.

Your goal is long-term monogamy in a 1950's style, D/s relationship. Over time, sexuality changes, health changes... it all changes. Parenthood, natural disasters, economic downturns, war... can make people unrecognizable from who they were "before." What happens if your "He" becomes paralyzed, from the neck down? Are you ready to work full-time, come home and take care of the kids and then take care of him? There are reasons why women are now expected to be providers if they are going to have kids. The 1950's can be a fun fantasy, but it's as high risk as any edge play to enter into it before having lots of savings, work skills and insurance, IMO.

That ^^^ is being supportive. I've seen way too many displaced submissives who thought it was romantic to abdicate financial responsibility and control... and it was. It was all about the romance and had nothing to do with reality, which they learned the hard way. So, a friendly "heads up" about balance.

I wish you all the best.

ETA - spelling error




I did a few deep breaths and poured a glass of Pinot noir before responding.... There was nothing "friendly" about your response. It was hostile and bitter. This submissive has multiple degrees, is quite capable and does well. I believe in love and devotion to my partner despite hardships or disasters. That was how I was raised. Accusing me of things when you have no idea who I am or what I'm about is just sad and not constructive.




eliseobeys -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 2:53:50 PM)

Please come take all the monogamous doms from me Worldtravelerxo I get flooded with them, they are all yours lol!

I have noticed, especially since the advent of computers on the lifstyle that poly groups have really shrunk as more and more of the vanilla community freely explored the kinky side of things.

Now I am not saying that monogamy isnt the clear majority in general, most people seem to be wired that way...vanilla or kink. The demographics seem to have shifted away from polyamory, which I think was more common when things were all in the shadows so to speak, prior to the new guard flood helped along online into the community.

However its no excuse for someone giving you grief over the way your set to work or choose to be.

Ive experienced the exact type of switch a roo myself only in reverse several times. The other partner hinting they would love to include others etc only to withdraw later. It could be they were curious and lost the nerve, or they didnt think their jealousy could be handled or they feared I would like the others better... who knows, no worries to me really, we just parted ways, sometimes I felt hurt by it others not so much.

Eventually I realized the best thing to do is ignore the haters and press on driving your pervertible down your own kinky lane.





DesFIP -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 2:57:03 PM)

Sorry, BV, but some dude saying he's monogamous and two months later insisting he's poly isn't just coming to a realization. He deliberately lied to get her to commit, figuring he could guilt trip her into this.

Fact is, there are a lot more monogamous couples than poly people. But most of us play at home privately. You get a lot more guys who aren't what I would call poly, but just want to fuck anything they can catch who are consistently chasing women because they can't get any woman to commit to them with that attitude. Or they're already married and lying about it, using the poly label to cheat.

More important op is that if these are the only guys you're talking to and meeting, that says your people picking skills need improvement. Don't respond to all emails, only to those you feel you have some compatibility with. If your gut feelings are that some guy isn't right, you don't owe him an answer.

No response is a response. And you don't get guys coming back saying you're not a real sub unless you turn them down. Online rejection makes a lot of guys channel their inner 8 year old, flinging any insult that comes to mind.




Worldtravelerxo -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 3:01:44 PM)

Thank you for your well thought out and genuine message. I guess the fact that I'm not hetero, though I'm not submissive to other women it's always been pre bdsm female relationships for me, can make people think I may be easily swayed. I've honestly considered changing my status to heterosexual in case it may cut down on the responses I'm getting and interactions I'm receiving. Kudos on the well articulated and pleasant profile by the way.




Worldtravelerxo -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 3:06:43 PM)


quote:

ORIGINAL: DesFIP

More important op is that if these are the only guys you're talking to and meeting, that says your people picking skills need improvement. Don't respond to all emails, only to those you feel you have some compatibility with. If your gut feelings are that some guy isn't right, you don't owe him an answer.



I've actually had a relationship with someone I've met through this site, it was of substantial length but after like a year there were obvious issues compatibility wise so it didn't work longtime term. Everything since has seem to just crash and bunt it's just frustrating. You are right though, I've had two separate occasions where the man neglected to disclose his marital status or relationship status..




angelikaJ -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 4:31:08 PM)

I think you may have been suffering from some type of fatigue when you read the OP.

There was nothing whatsoever educational in tone to comments such as:
quote:

"not being submissive", "being selfish" and my personal favorite "insisting on monogamy is topping from the bottom."
.





BecomingV -> RE: When did monogamy become such a dirty word? (5/29/2014 7:02:18 PM)

Yep, I am dragging today.

However, I didn't focus on those parts because:

1) other posters already had

2) and it's obvious that the OP is not thinking they are right. She's pissed! She doesn't want to hear it. But, you know, while I don't agree with those sentiments, I've been hearing them for years. There are those among us who DO see things that way. In the absence of a supreme ruler of BDSM, I tend to accept that there's a lot of diversity of thought. Growing in tolerance lets me rise above the squabbles over "who is right?" and instead focus on who is right for me and who am I right for. So what if others think differently?

3) I repeat... I focused on the parts of the situation that only the OP can control. What they said... they control that. She only controls the meaning she attaches to the words. Attitude.

And, denial can take time to see. It's so hard. I was expecting the response I got and posted anyway. Sometimes, people brush or kick something away, but later, it suddenly comes to mind when a similar situation arises. (because when people don't make changes, they just recreate them and get another pass at learning later) Since no one can prove to me that this won't happen, I choose to believe, that the light bulb will go on and the OP will find clarity and feel relief.

angelika, I see those comments as educational in terms of learning that some people think and talk that way. Again, so what? They get to do that. There are a lot of fetishists and kinksters who know nothing of protocol, because they don't want to know.

If I got upset every time I was told about TWUE BDSM... I'd lose my ability to laugh. Instead, I chuckle at the differences. Tolerance - it's an option.

I would NOT say that those statements are wrong. The selfish part... maybe that person had a valid reason for saying it, or not. The other two statements reflect other people's views. angelika, prove them wrong for the OP, and I.

Right. No one can because it's a community of diversity and tolerance.

"Different" does not equate with "wrong."


quote:

ORIGINAL: angelikaJ

I think you may have been suffering from some type of fatigue when you read the OP.

There was nothing whatsoever educational in tone to comments such as:
quote:

"not being submissive", "being selfish" and my personal favorite "insisting on monogamy is topping from the bottom."
.







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