This January is my second anniversary here with ReNude Pride although it is the actual third January being published here. This month was a celebration as the second year of publication was observed. In keeping with a tradition I’ve established here on ReNude Pride, at the end of each month I post a commentary on that month and what accomplishments, if any, were made and other pertinent thoughts worth noting. I use this as a tool of keeping readers informed as well as a measure of success.
Category: reflection
Do What’s Right!
Doing what we know is the “right” (correct) action isn’t always easy. It’s often not as plain and clear as many of us would like to think. Especially in these challenging times in which we live what sometimes may seem to be the obvious choice is occasionally complicated by outside factors or influences such as situation, participants, etc. This is particularly true when the choices presented to us are accompanied by conflicting values, attitudes and beliefs. The dilemma can and often is never-ending.
State of ReNude Pride
As January is my anniversary month of publishing ReNude Pride here, I feel it is my solemn duty as a committed bare practitioner (naturist or nudist), a same gender loving (gay) man and as this site’s author, to deliver a “state of the blog” message to reiterate the purpose of this space and my dedication to upholding my sacred duty. Now, if that very verbose statement didn’t put anyone asleep, in simple terms, this is my time to remember why I do this!
Bare Contemplation
Occasionally, I am accused by some of “overthinking” a particular topic or issue. What I believe others are trying to communicate with me is that at times, I allow myself to dwell on a subject that isn’t worth all the energy and time that I devote to it. Take ReNude Pride for instance. Yes, I do put a conscious effort in planning, developing and composing this site – after all, it is my site. I’m the man who signs (types) his name to every post and signs off every composition with wishing “naked hugs” to everyone who reads here.
World AIDS Day, 2018
World AIDS Day turns 30 years old today. The very first global commemoration to raise awareness of the HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) was observed on December 1, 1988 – seven years into the struggle against HIV/AIDS. Normally, this type of anniversary would be a cause of celebration. However, the fact that humanity still suffers from this disease is no reason for jubilation. Yes, we have had a few remarkable successes in fighting this pandemic; but the fact remains that we continue to lose both lives and talent.
Reflections: End of November, 2018
November, 2018, was most definitely not the month I expected it to be. As those of you who read ReNude Pride regularly already know, my father died on November 11. This event happened unexpectedly following his diagnosis of stage 4 cancer of the colon, liver and one kidney on October 28. Mercifully, it wasn’t a protracted end but was swift and relatively pain-free. Which does beg the question: “How the hell do the doctors or any of us really know how painless any death truly is?”
Black Friday: The Madness Begins
Despite what the featured photograph and title may infer, the designation “Black Friday” has nothing whatsoever to do with a racial reference. Instead, the term “Black Friday” is what is known in the U.S. retail industry as the official first day of the Christmas holiday shopping season. It is the day after the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday (always the fourth Thursday in November) which means it is always a Friday. The “Black” designation is in reference to the customary business practice of posting commercial profits in black ink and commercial losses in red ink.
Tomorrow Is USA: Election Day
In the USA, tomorrow is Election Day. In every voting district, the entire U.S. Congressional House of Representatives is standing for election. In the U.S. Senate, many Senators are also facing their constituents today. It is not a presidential election year (we could not be so fortunate), but we do have a duty and obligation to determine policies and governance for the next two years. Please, do not stand around waiting for others to decide for you. Please get out and exercise your choice for our future if you have not already done so.
A Penny For My Thoughts: Are We Muddying The Rainbow Flag?
Last year (2017) when a revised version of the rainbow flag was unfurled in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA in honor of Gay Pride, it generated quite a controversy. It continues to create heated debate now, more than a year afterwards. This uproar is all centered on a version of the rainbow flag that Philadelphia chose to symbolize their support of all citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation, and their commitment to respecting diversity. Honorable intentions and no disrespect were intended but obviously not taken by everyone.
Continue reading A Penny For My Thoughts: Are We Muddying The Rainbow Flag?
Thursday Footnote: Ton Dou Arrest
This “Friday Footnote” post I’m publishing here a day early, Thursday. I’ve already composed my “Bare GLBTQ History Month” feature for tomorrow (Friday). Rather than update or trying to re-schedule, it is far easier for me to publish this now. Many of you commented and/or contacted me on Anthony Lynn Douglas’ arrest in New York City in early September at the petition signing for his Bare Body Freedom movement rally in Times Square. He and others were permitted by the New York City to be completely bare at that rally.
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 