LadyHugs
Posts: 2299
Joined: 1/1/2004 Status: offline
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Dear Dnomyar, Rover, Ladies and Gentlemen; I do have to agree with Rover's post on the differences between Master and Dominant and the brief summary flow of how Master and Dominant came to past. Being introduced to the lifestyle in the 1970's; there were no titles of "Dominant/submissive." It was a state of being. Although the vein of the lifestyle I took, was more towards the Gay Leathermen overseas as a military dependant; the lifestyle was totally different from American Gay Leathermen. But, I must also mention that there were no support and education groups back then. It was only word of mouth and a letter of recommendation and an individual vouching for you and your character. Things we take for granted in the USA, they could not--so, things were still carefully and discreetly done. I also will agree, that the philosophy that I am 'familiar' with from my early exposures to the lifestyle was more M/s then Bondage and or fetish. In addition, I will also agree with Rover; that when heterosexuals became more 'visible' and 'involved,' as the Gay Leather community really were the brinksmanship to 'public acceptance/tolerance' there were some who did not wish to take the same approach, to include protocol, practices and 'roughness' that Leathermen seemingly was excluding but, to that defense--they didn't tolerate wankers or twinkies, femme men and such. So, I do understand the 'why.' As for my personal journey, I earned my leathers from my peers and my title of "Master" was bestowed overseas in a small leather community of English/American speaking members that mingled with the host countries overseas. I met my military serving slave there in the 1980s. When returning to the USA, I earned my leathers again within the Gay Leather Community, as I was an associate member of the International Trident's Association and my association was voted on and approved in Baltimore, MD. The President of the Baltimore's Chapter was my sponsor as well as bestowing my leather and title as Master. One of the original Gay Leathermen title holders, to which the title no longer exists, as it has be changed into a different title, has bestowed me with the title of "Master," and see me as a Master in their eyes. Other Gay Leathermen to whom I hold fond affections for have also recognized me and address me as "Master." But, in the 1980's the heterosexual leather community wasn't so keen on calling a woman "Master." So, I straddled two communities and their standards. Its not as bad now days and it isn't as ugly as it once was. Mind you, I am not Lesbian or even Bi-sexual. I'm Heterosexual. But, I will say this in the most gentle of terms; I wish that the Heterosexual Leather community was more gracious to females who identified as a Master or Mistress. I've been treated more tenderly and loving by the Gay Leathermen overseas and in the USA, then the heterosexual community. Although I am very forgiving--I don't forget my memories and or experiences. That is why I am an extremely difficult 'fit' when it comes to finding a slave. I wish to also add, that the Gay Leathermen seemingly still push hard to give back to the community. It also needs to be said, that before there were support and education groups; the Gay Leathermen had their supports through Biker groups and associations. Their seeds of encouragements to the heterosexual and Lesbians have borne good fruits. We're all a product of growth and accomplishments through inspiration and a sense of community. Respectfully submitted for consideration, Lady Hugs
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