When I first discovered BDSM, I found a web site that was hosted by the local community here. It seemed down to earth and was very welcoming. I joined their channel on IRC and "met" a few of the locals. Lo! and Behold! They were real people who talked about real things! They didn't have thrones and pedestals, and they were very enthusiastic when they chatted about the local events such as munches, picnics and play parties.
It took me years (literally) before I even considered meeting any of those people away from a keyboard. I had chatted with a few, two in particular took great strides online to convince me to attend my first event - a picnic in a very public park. They assured me that I would be welcome. One even offered to share his Brie cheese with me. Now what human being can refuse that kind of offer?
I decided to attend. Just as they had said online, I was welcomed with open arms. I joined them and for the first time saw a strong D/s dynamic in a very public and vanilla setting, where children played and adults just enjoyed an afternoon out with like-minded people. It was the first time that the lifestyle met reality for me. It wasn't in a dungeon - there weren't dragons flying around. No white knights and no winged horses. Just very real people who share a common kink.
I know that to many, this lifestyle is a private affair. It is to me too. I have not played in public. I tend to blend in with the rest of society - I don't wear fetish wear or have a flogger dangling from my waist when I head to the grocery store. I saw no need for attending munches and events - my D/s was private and nobody else's business.
My views have changed considerably since I joined them for that picnic. I discovered a group of people who genuinely care about each other. They are as passionate about this lifestyle as I am, if not more. They are always willing to share their experiences with me, and have helped me grow in leaps and bounds that I would have never experienced on my own.
While my journey is private and mine alone, it is made richer by those around me who care enough to want to help me along while I discover myself.
You know who you are. With both hands, I offer my thanks and a promise to make you proud.
dove