Underneath?

Commando!

Commando = without underwear!

Background:

Commando is an ambiguous term with multiple meanings; however, this site’s name is ReNude Pride. The opening header pose features the intended focus of this topic here today. After contemplation, the definition of commando being referenced here obviously is not related to the armed forces and/or the military.

There have been times in our lives when we have seen a picture of someone or something and wondered: what is the meaning of this? Either the subject or the photographer (or perhaps both) are communicating but what is the message?

In today’s posting commando refers to the practice/routine of not wearing any style of underwear (boxers, briefs, thongs, jock-strap) when textile (clothed). For some committed commando devotees, this practice also entails no undershirts. The choice remains with the person opting out! There are no listed “rules of engagement” for commando. It is the decision of the person avoiding the wearing of underwear.

Chad removing his shirt while commando!

Going Commando:

For many, the month of March and the arrival of the Spring season entices them into discarding their underwear. Others decide not to wear underwear – period! The decision id one that each individual makes for themselves. In the .gif image above, Chad is removing his shirt but we can tell that he is totally commando inside his pants. His pubic hairline isn’t contained with any type of waistband.

Certain types of clothing, particularly cycling shorts and kilts, are designed to be worn or are traditionally worn without any garment underneath.

“Going commando” is the phrase used to describe the absence of underwear underneath one’s clothing (pants/shorts). Another phrase used is: “going free-balling” (slang for allowing the testicles to hang freely). The origin of the term “going commando” is unclear and vague. In the gay community, it is often thought to be “out in the open” or “ready for action.” Both interpretations based primarily on the proverbial preparedness for combat readiness of the U.S. Marines.

The army attributes the Vietnam War where soldiers went without underwear in order to “increase ventilation and reduce moisture.” The cause of this association is the extreme humidity the soldiers endured during involvement in that conflict.

Commando embracing!

For many exploring the bare practitioner culture, the commando option is a first step in the process. Underwear, because of it’s intimacy, is the first element of clothing put on and the last element of clothing removed. Discarding underwear is a logical beginning practice when a man is considering nudity. It simplifies the act of getting dressed/undressed.

One of the benefits of “going commando” is the reduction in the amount and frequency of our laundry loads. This conserves effort, energy and time while allowing us the freedom to pursue more pleasurable and rewarding undertakings!

My oldest brother, Nick, is also same gender loving (SGL). Unlike Alex (my identical twin) and I, his indulgence into nakedness is mostly confined to when he is with one of us and a social nudity function is involved. Nick is a commando enthusiast throughout the entire calendar year and boasts of the extra space he now has in his luggage to being boxer-free! Yet another satisfied commando!

Boxer (underwear) freedom!

An additional advantage to “going commando” is that now that March is here, in the Northern Hemisphere, Spring has arrived and along with it, the imminent comfortable, outdoor temperatures. The desire and urgings to skinny-dip (swim naked) is soon to happen!

The spontaneous nature of skinny-dipping is intensified in the sudden and often hurried stripping out of our clothing as we rush to enter into the body of water. In our haste, “going commando” provides us with one less item of clothing to search for once our skinny-dip is finished. Commando makes our lives so much easier!

Aaron, my spouse and I, once the frigid and rough days of winter have passed, frequently “go commando” on weekends, especially when there is a social nudity event occurring. We both appreciate the fact that there is one less article of attire that needs removal. The majority of the time, we’re wearing a pair of jeans (either pants or shorts) as casual clothing usually offers the maximum comfort.

Commando in cameo!

Allow me to reiterate the difference between a bare practitioner and a commando. The bare practitioner is one of complete nakedness. Without any clothing or covering whatsoever, save perhaps some jewelry. A commando individual, at the very least, is wearing pants and/or shorts. Commando is without undergarment, no matter the style or type of underwear the person prefers.

These “fine lines” of distinction may be crossed over at any time. As posted above, Aaron and I are loyal bare practitioners but on occasion we dress commando, depending on the particular circumstance. The same applies to dedicated commando disciples who, at times, opt for nudity.

To my knowledge, there is no restriction forbidding persons from “crossing” from one appearance style to another. It remains the personal choice for each individual. Sometimes, less is much better!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Sunday, March 31, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! Easter, 2024!”

Maschalagnia II!

My educator, friend and inductor: Kory Mitchell!

ReNude Pride’s Annual Celebration and Salute to Bare Practitioners Everywhere Who Are Confident and Proud of Their Armpit Hair!

Maschalagnia Mentors!

Kory Mitchell: Educator, Friend, Inductor

Kory Mitchell is the very first openly gay and nudist celebrity to publicly acknowledge his maschalagnia affinity and to define it’s meaning – at least, to my knowledge. He confesses to being sexually enthralled with men’s hairy armpits. In an interview, he uses the label maschalagnia to identify himself and follows that with a thorough definition. Kory taught me the new condition and indoctrinated me on it’s effect on my life. I recognize him as my educator and as my inductor into this world of men’s hairy armpits. He is also a man that I proudly address as friend. I am so very grateful and thankful to you, Kory! As a token of my sincere appreciation, I often use this enlarged image of Kory’s underarm as the opening “header” for my postings on hairy armpits!

Prior to my lesson from Kory, I described myself as “a man with a fetish for men’s hairy armpits!” His interview about the traits that attracted him to men was in a magazine named Inches. He is of mixed descent. His father is an African-American armed service member and his mother is German. He received his education in both Germany and the USA. He can’t ever recall being elusive or shamed about his nakedness or about his sexuality.

After Kory Mitchell was diagnosed HIV+, he immediately became active in discussing HIV/AIDS prevention strategies with his professional associates in the gay porn industry. His receipt of his certifications in both the American Red Cross Fundamentals curriculum and the Red Cross Prevention Skills curriculum. I was an instructor trainer (educator) volunteer in both of those curriculums in addition to the African-American Prevention Skills curriculum. This was the immediate basis of our friendship that quickly expanded to include SGL issues, our shared nakedness and other social concerns.

Kory Mitchell: complete nakedness, maschalagnia and a leather harness!

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Sean Xavier: Secondary Educator

Sean Xavier, a smile and maschalagnia view!

Sean Xavier (birthname: Kyle Overton) was born on January 16, 1988, in Victorville, California. He is the very second openly gay and nudist celebrity to publicly acknowledge not only his maschalagnia but also his shortcoming. He confirms the shaving of his chest hair when he initially began his career in pornography. He was young, inexperienced and intimidated by the studio executives who often treated him as a novice intern instead of an actor under contract. They told him to shave his chest hair and he did. He has now matured.

Sean has never admitted to shaving his underarm hair. I have never seen an image of him without hairy underarms.

In an interview in a magazine named: Inches, I read of his sexual attraction to the male hairy armpits and his – at that time – recent discovery of the word maschalagnia and it’s definition. The man conducting the interview admitted to his lack of knowledge on the subject.

“Body hair – a little or a lot – is part of being manly. Like our nipples, penis and testicles, it is what makes us who we are. Bisexual or gay, we know what is good for us!” ~ Sean Xavier ~ gay actor

Sean Xavier: maschalangnia and nakedness!

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The late Colin Black, Hirsute Axilla Activist and Champion

It was 2022, when I was reading a notice of the SGL actor, Colin Black’s receipt of the 2012 Hoodie Award for the Best Boyfriend Fantasy that I learned of his gaining of both attention and reputation of a “Hairy armpits rights activist.” Until I read the article/interview, I never had even seen that phrase used. I became an admirer of Colin immediately.

During this period, the gay porn industry executives and producers (bullies?) were arbitrarily mandating that some actors (selective) were required to maintain themselves as “armpit and pubic hair free.” The reasoning? They were to be available to film or to pose immediately with no time to shave or otherwise groom away their hair. The “bullies” plan? If the actor’s didn’t sign that particular clause of their contract, then continue elsewhere to look for work. Additionally, some had another additional clause that prohibited them from public nakedness.

Colin, of mixed racial/ethnic heritage (African-American, Indigenous American and Korean) was known for his concern for civil and equal rights for all. He publicly lobbied and protested against these arbitrary clauses and argued against the studio’s infringement on the individual’s “natural rights.” His persistence achieved results and the policies began to disappear.

Colin Black’s Hoodie Award wasn’t based on his activist involvement but it was extensively revealed through his interview on receiving this honour.

A “hairy armpits rights activist!” I should seriously re-examine my own professional choice! Actually, that job title and that notion conveniently fits comfortably in my underarms and its fur!

Sadly, Colin died of narcotics complications in 2016.

Colin Black, maschalagnia and pierced nipples!

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Introduction:

2024 marks the eighth year of publication of ReNude Pride. At least a couple of times each year, I deliberately and intentionally offered in my accompanying photographs as well as my post entry text of my attraction to men’s hairy armpits. I’ve often received ridicule for admitting to having a “fetish” for men’s underarm fur.

For that reason, I felt a sense of privacy over my attraction to and fascination with men’s hirsute axilla! The jokes about my “addiction” to that feature of masculinity were manageable. The notoriety was the inconvenience that I sought to avoid.

Then, in 2021, after the coronavirus COVID-19 debacle, I mentally told myself to hell with it! My attraction to man’s hairy armpits is an integral aspect of what and who I am as a bare practitioner. Pretending that this characteristic isn’t a part of my life is – itself – ridiculous and worthy of all the degradation anyone wants to convey to me!

Felipe Ferreira flashes his underarm fur!

I’m so glad that Brazilian-born model/DJ/soft gay porn actor Felipe Ferreira finds my hesitancy over publishing about my dedication to hairy underarms on men so funny! Notice how he is sharing glimpses of his own underarm fur!

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Arms raised high!

Glossary:

Maschalagnia hairy armpit fascination and obsession

Axilla (armpit or underarm) is the area on the human body directly under the joint where the arm connects to the shoulder. It also contains numerous sweat glands. In humans, the formation of body odor happens mostly in the armpit. These odorant substances serve as pheromones which play a role related to mating.

Hirsute Axilla hairy armpit/ furry underarm

A person frequently is attracted to armpits and to armpit hair.

Austin Wilde (bald) invites his partner to sample his furry armpit!

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Open doorway to maschalagnia exploration!

His hirsute underarms and his nakedness invite us all inside to view this hairy gallery! Enter at your own risk!

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Arms raised! Phoenix Fellington, our spokes-model!

4M!

Since graciously assuming his unofficial spokes-model role here for ReNude Pride, in all fairness, Phoenix Fellington deserves and has earned all the recognition due a man of his distinction and nakedness. The 4M! entitlement? It represents the official message that this picture of him denotes: March: Maschalagnia Madness Month! That’s the very least we can do in order to celebrate hairy armpits!

“An eyeful of a man’s hairy armpits reminds me of my business: I’m about to get busy with another man!” ~ Phoenix Fellington ~ ReNude Pride spokes-model gay film celebrity

Phoenix Fellington: maschalagnia profile and nakedness!

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Hirsute Commencement

Friends with maschalagnia pride!

Alex, my identical twin brother, who I refer to as “Twin” (as he does me) and I began puberty just before our 12th birthday. He recalls that my interest in men’s hairy armpits seems to have happened within just one night. “I remember you went to bed, naked and normal. The next morning, you woke up dancing around our bedroom because you were growing pubic and underarm hair!”

Then, he also remembered that I only calmed down when he showed to me that the same was happening to him. For a few brief minutes, I felt special and unique entering into manhood! The photo of the teen duo (above) flaunting their underarm fur brought with it memories of “back-n-the-day!” Recently, I posted and introduced my lifelong bare practitioner buddy, Paul Turner. Click the title below to view.

USA: Black History Month

During our many trips to the gay nudist area of the James River Park in Richmond, Virginia, we often observed young adult men engaged in physical exploration. A number of times Paul and I, in an adventurous spirit, followed suite. We both used our lips and tongue alternating between his hairy armpits and mine.

The memories that we have of the “memories of mischief” that we engaged in during our teenage career! I suppose our survival of that period is as miraculous as the mischief itself!

Another open admission: until Paul’s tongue licked my underarm fur, my armpits were virginal. Unfortunately, the experienced Paul was unable to confirm the same!

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Weightlifting underarms!

Time now to migrate from memories to a question concerning pheromones, defined in the Glossary above. I’ve often wondered, I know that we masturbate to relieve sexual tension and provide gratification. When we inhale the odor emitted from the pheromones of our own underarms, does that enable a similar self-gratification experience? Okay, an unintentional falsehood here. I have more than just one question.

Is this “scent of desire” created in our armpits excite only our potential intimacy partners? Are we immune to our own scent?

Regrettably, I can’t just close my eyes, take a deep breath and receive the answers to all of my questions. Perhaps I should raise my arm, sniff my armpit and maybe then I’ll have an answer!

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Gio Dell, salutes and maschalagnia pride!

SUN: Sibling’s Underarms and Nakedness

Venezuela-born bare practitioners, half-brothers, male escorts and models, Gio Dell and gay film actor Armani, salute everyone who shares in their maschalagnia blissful condition! Gio is confident and proud not only of his hairy armpits but likeise of every follicle of his hirsute manliness! He has modelled himself, his nakedness – and his gay exclusivity – since 2009. Above, he poses offering a salute to all of us. Gio shaves only his facial and head hairs! A man of my own standing!

Armani, name tattoo and hairy armpits!

The younger Armani, above, has sparser body hair but very impressive hair in his underarms. He keeps his head hairs cropped (cut) close.

Both half-brothers have made films for the gay porn industry and they both enjoy healthy living. Armani has a very popular male escort service!

Skinny-dipping Gio Dell!

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Pleasure

Ecstasy!

There is no doubt that the ecstasy this man above is experiencing is enhanced by his raised arm and his exposure of his hirsute axilla!

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Interracial maschalagnia!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, March 15, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Does Size Matter?”

Delayed Decline and Forward!

Fitness for tone!

Background:

We’ve now progressed to the third month of the new year, 2024. In my post entries here on ReNude Pride, in particular regarding new year’s resolutions, I’ve consistently focused on the poor timing for such life changes. The level of commitment to maintain the adjustment simply isn’t at the optimal level during the frenzy of the winter holiday season.

Reduced resolve:

The weather isn’t always conducive to the fluctuation of our daily routine. From seasonal temperatures to frigid temperatures and then to uncertain temperatures while adapting to all the other issues confronting us is not always in our best interests. Additionally, the realities of ice and snow, on a daily basis, often erases any resolve we may have.

Both my spouse, Aaron, and I have observed these result during our visits – jointly and separately – at our local fitness facility. Our job schedules don’t coincide so we visit the center at early mornings (me) or early afternoons (Aaron). The new year begins annually and the workout attendance soars. Everyone starts the new year driven to become fit and toned before the summer season is upon us.

As the weeks pass, the numbers of gym attendees starts to drop. Suddenly, the “fresh faces” at every workout station are gone and the only ones around us are the dedicated few who have been visiting the same exercise facility for as long as ourselves. The usage of the influx of new members noticeably begins to decline by the beginning of February. This year, the decrease in attendance is only now becoming apparent. Delayed!

Exercise!

Yet another example of the futility of the new year’s resolutions debacle. Why attempt to introduce positive improvements when the environment is so unproductive? That’s the reason Aaron and I both advocate Spring Resolutions instead of New Year’s Resolutions.

The arrival of Spring itself mystically promises a successful future. The rebirth and return of a new season of both growth and hope enriches most of us to physically undertake something new. The reappearance of warmer weather and the extension of the hour of natural daylight available daily offer us all encouragement.

Treadmill for health!

Improving our lifestyle and quality of life now seems easier and not as overwhelming. The mindset: I can do this! now becomes reality and not a figment of our imagination. Plus, for some mysterious and strange reason, the ice and the snow just suddenly melt away!

Stripping off his pants for Springtime!

Subtle Reminder: Spring, 2024, begins this month: March!

Consider creating a personal list (brief) of Spring Resolutions!

Keeping our resolutions list concise and simple increases our chances for a successful completion! Instead of over-burdening ourselves, focusing on a limited number of improvements enables us to consolidate our energies and to reduce distractions. Two or three successes are better than a dozen failures and guarantee an increase and a stronger self-confidence! A positive attitude empowers productivity and self-growth!

Fitness bar!

The majority of us lack the financial resources for a bare practitioner-accepting and friendly exercise/fitness accommodation. The result is that we have to contend with a textile (clothed) workout. Hopefully, the .gifs offered below provide us with some sort of inspirational incentive to strive for our very best; whether we are bare or wearing athletic gear!

Treadmill preparation!
Treadmill engagement!

Of course, our fitness-seeker (above) is wearing the minimal amount of gear as we all know that his personal preference is for complete nakedness! No matter how enticing our “treadmill-man” may think his exercise uniform appears, our bare practitioner instincts usually always focus on the examples perceived as being in common with our own: nudity!

Confused!

Confused?

Don’t suffer confusion! We’ve already survived leap year day (29 February, 2024), for this calendar year. Now is the time for us to return to an extra hour of daylight daily! Prepare yourselves and plan in advance. This annual phenomenon is now upon us!

Your watch timepiece!

Daylight Savings Time (DST) begins at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, 10 March, 2024!

Officially, this means that at 2:00 a.m., (local time) physically adjust your time-piece (cock, watch, etc.) to 3:00 a.m. Simple? Hopefully! Please remember to adjust the clock in your automobile! Remember: we are bare practitioners! We don’t have the luxury of unzipping your partner’s pants with the intention of “adjusting” his time! As bare practitioners, none of us should be wearing anything!

Friday footnote!

Friday Footnote: Book Recommendation!

The Guardians is a fiction novel by John Grisham published in 2019. It is based on an actual legal case of an innocent man wrongly convicted of murder and sentenced to death. Diligent and thoughtful, it brings emphasis to the serious lack of honesty, integrity and justice in our vulnerable judiciary system.

S scenario that a probable majority of us hopes never happens; no matter our personal feelings on the legitimacy of capital punishment. A recommended read to evaluate and explore!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, March 11, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Maschalagnia II!”

Bare: Modesty 2?

The Shoneye Twins: Daniel and Darren!

Background:

This topic, Bare Modesty, was originally announced for publication in January, 2024. It was then postponed due to my personal confusion – over my notes and my draft – while composing the actual post entry. I then substituted another subject and re-scheduled the publication until the following month, February. Today is 1 March, 2024, and I am publishing a condensed and – hopefully – clarified version of my intended post entry.

I sincerely apologize once again for any confusion or inconvenience about this mistake.

Thoughtful identical twins!

Vulnerable? Susceptible? Conspiratorial?

Is it a message of embarrassment, guilt and shame? Or is it an encouragement to discover and explore comfort and relaxation in body and clothes freedom? Obviously, the men depicted in the above images are identical twins, so why do the Black twins imply that one of them has an issue with his nakedness and the White twins are both apparently accepting and unaffected by their nudity? In actuality, the Black twins (Daniel and Darren Shoneye) are both confident and proud of their bare practitioner status in the world! Neither of the Shoneye twins have any hesitation in proving their affinity for their sexuality or their nakedness in their lives!

Daniel and Darren: proud of themselves!

Also, a personal notation. Alex is my identical twin and we can verify that we have no problems in being same gender loving or in being publicly seen in our nakedness. The defining label is “identical” twins for a reason!

Felipe Ferreira and his “pride” tattoo!

Introduction:

The word bare is considered to mean naked, nude, uncovered, empty, void or without. A bare Felipe Ferreira is clothes free (naked). A bare shelf is empty. A bare mind is often used to describe my mental state of being and pursuit of that example would last forever!

The Modesty Syndrome:

Modesty implies the exact opposite idea. It is understood as concern or fear of being considered, seen or viewed as being bare. In particular, regarding textile (clothed). Often this word is involved with a person’s status of being dressed (covered) and/or undressed (uncovered).

In the image above, Felipe Ferreira uses his body language (communication) to confirm or reinforce our knowledge that he is – indeed – posing while totally bare. This makes the fact that he truly is in the state of body and clothes freedom and utilizing his hand as his communication tool to conceal his genitalia from our view. Hence, the subtle message of being “modest.”

Therefore, the action of concealment negates the intended body language while placing emphasis on the reality that Felipe is honestly, really and truly engaging in nakedness. The steps used to insinuate modesty thus have the opposite effect! In other words, “pretend” you don’t want to be seen naked!

Remaining on the picture of Felipe for one final thought. He has “pride” tattooed at the base of his neck. Is this tattoo reflecting his feeling about being same gender loving (SGL) or is it a summary of his feeling about being bare (his nakedness)? Given our frequent encounter of his clothes freedom while with another man, can we conclude it is his confidence in being both gay and naked?

Felipe Ferreira: body language and confidence!

According to his public comments on his tattoo, and his photographic opportunities, he has no problem or shame being both bare and SGL! “I am me!” is his response! At least now, he’s comfortable in modelling his pubic hairline!

Phoenix Fellington (right) and companion!

Absence of Modesty:

Featured above is ReNude Pride’s unofficial spokes-model, Phoenix Fellington, and his half-bare companion! Phoenix (birth name: TreLarun Fenderson) is the African-American bare practitioner on the right in the picture. There is no doubt as to his acceptance and comfort with both his nakedness and his SGL attraction (exclusively gay). Likewise, there is no doubt about his repulsion of being considered anything other than what and who he truly is!

In interviews, when questioned about his his nudity tendencies, his standard answer is: “I love to be nude surrounded by nature!” The former U.S. Marine has no regret over his SGL status!

Although his youthful companion wearing only his shirt and showing his masculine anatomy below his waist does raise questions in the minds of some. Why does he feel the need to conceal his chest? Perhaps he feels a chill but more than likely the shirt item was the decision of the photographer and/or his agent. It does appear strange his waving his hand while smiling and exposing his genitalia! Especially with our man, Phoenix, is fully and happily bare right there beside him. One fact is undisputed: neither of the two have an issue concerning modesty except for the obvious: “not me!

The gay adult film industry (pornography studios) is known for hosting lavish gala events where top celebrity performers are welcome ( and enthusiastically encouraged to socialize naked/nude. This practice began in the mid-to-late 1970s when gay porn evolved into the “gay porn industry” label. When I initially laid my eyes upon this photo, Phoenix portrayed the proud “father” and his waving companion represented his overindulged child. I don’t know if this message/scenario was intended, whenever I encounter this image, that thought automatically reappears mentally.

Phoenix (center) directing his support staff in a scenic exercise!

As to the studio socials? Our spokes-model, Phoenix, has earned the reputation of being extremely outspoken and very “heroic” at these events, often chiding studio executives and their VIP cohorts for any shortcomings, accidental or otherwise, toward his co-workers in the industry. He firmly believes in equality and fairness for all – no matter their professional prestige!

The studio executives and management are finally and reluctantly accepting Phoenix for what and who he actually is. They recognize his talent and enthusiasm and his popularity in the gay porn industry; as long as he continues to produce the financial results they need, they grudgingly allow him to have the freedom he seeks for his professional standards: equality, fairness and primarily his unrestricted nakedness!

His charges of racial insensitivity against the Noir Male executives and the overwhelming success of his boycott of that studio’s discriminatory policies convinced them to accede to his expectations. Sometimes nakedness does achieve profound results!

A modest pose?

Reasoning Assumptions:

The photos directly above and below this section represent the theme under consideration: the subject (model/performer) often may not be in a determining role for the shared images. It may feature them but the details of how much of their anatomy is presented is beyond their control. Others, photographer/videographer, agents, studio executives. financial supporters, etc., may and usually do have the final decision authority.

Quite often, the model or performer has essentially no determination in whether they pose/perform fully exposed or not.

The lack of deliberate body language to obscure nudity does not eliminate the obvious fact. The person presented is naked and apparently unbothered by any emotions surrounding their lack of clothing or covering. The absence of body language to indicate modesty itself confirms that whoever made the decision is aware that any body language would reinforce the nakedness concept and ideal.

Nakedness obvious!

Various people have offered many reasons for their cautious approach to public nudity. Among some of the major excuses, the fear of a public erection – the growth of the male penis – is by far the foremost leader. What males seem to forget is that spontaneous erections – the subconscious occurrence – happens throughout one’s life and usually without any advance warning or conscious stimulation. The more accustomed a man becomes with his nakedness in social settings generally reduces this happening. Having several alternate plans in case this occurs generally helps a person to relax.

Another situation that causes hesitation in social nudity is the reluctance of some to the occasional reality that not everyone has a precise moment to remove any clothing they may wear. Many are uncomfortable in being the first to strip out of their clothing and baring themselves. However, if everyone hesitates, then few, if any, have the chance to enjoy the glory of their nakedness! The best solution for this issue is to plan to get bare whenever possible and let those hesitating make their own decision when convenience happens.

Bare but not bold!

My spouse, Aaron, and I have discussed these and other situations privately and then with acquaintances and friends numerous times and there are an endless number of reasons that people voluntarily give for procrastination. If a clothing optional beach or event is the destination, it is best for deciding when in route to engage in social nudity or not and simply have fun – with or without others. Delaying the joy-of-the-moment for someone else to take the initiative isn’t necessarily the best protocol to adhere.

Indecisive celebration!

Exhibitionism:

For some bare practitioners there exists an absolute fear of being perceived as being an exhibitionist. Exhibitionism is regarded as “the act of flaunting oneself in order to attract attention.” Psychologically, exhibitionism is viewed as “compulsive exposure of the sexual organs in public.” It stands to reason that an exhibitionist is “a person who compulsively (habitually) exposes themselves publicly for attention.”

For the exhibitionist, it is the reaction (response) from the person who witnesses the act that gives them pleasure. It is not the fact that they are naked. They receive their thrill (satisfaction) from offending or shocking another person, more often than not, by publicly stroking themselves. In summary, a thrill-seeker with shock-value!

In most instances and occasions, the offensive actions of an exhibitionist are illegal and are accompanied by serious consequences. It usually involves public prosecution, public embarrassment and humiliation outside of the legal ramifications.

In these situations, the position of modesty isn’t the issue. The person appearing or posing naked/nude doesn’t want the implication of being an exhibitionist associated with themselves not with their body! The modesty entailed here is not with nakedness itself. It is modesty concerning the exhibitionist label and perception.

Author’s advisory:

A sequel to this post entry is planned for Monday, March 4, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Exculpatory Evidence!”

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, March 4, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Exculpatory Evidence!”

Sankofa!

Adinkra symbol: Sankofa!

Introduction:

As previously presented here on ReNude Pride, the sankofa Adinkra symbol, from that tribe residing in the modern countries of west Africa, Ghana and Ivory Coast. The symbol is featured in the above heading along with the wisdom it represents. A synonymous defining word is retrospective. A look back in order to acquire direction for the future.

Another version of the sankofa is offered below. The variance is in the symbolic emblems only. The definition and wisdom is identical for both.

Sankofa: varied emblem!

Purpose:

Today’s post entry is offered as a supplement to the posting: Bare! Black! SGL! That post was published here this past Friday. It is a satirical examination of the myth: Black people aren’t gay or naked.

This post is a retrospective (sankofa) consideration of photographs prior to the Stonewall Inn riots (SIR) of June 28, 1969. An event that precipitated the modern international GLBTQ+ movement. Please note: the subjects shown here in these photos are bare. The dates of the pictures are approximate based on the hair-styles alone.

A kiss!

Sankofa #1: Affection

The estimated date for this picture is the middle 1960s.

Rural couple!

Adinkra #2: Companionship

The hairstyles on these two men are possibly from the late 1960s.

Embracing couple!

Adinkra #3: Trust

The approximate date of this image are the middle to late 1960s.

Mutual affection!

Adinkra #4: Attraction

The estimated time of this picture is early 1960s.

Strongly encouraged!
Proud of who we are!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, February 23, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Race: Race’s POV!”

Bare! Black! SGL!

The Triumvirate: Bare! Black! SGL!

The Magic and the Myth!

Often, the mythology lies around, dormant. After all, it’s an old myth that no one really considers important. It’s also an old myth that we have all probably seen refuted by reality. It simply is nothing earth-shattering or shocking. It’s not detrimental or explosive. All it does is just lie there.

Then, one day when we least expect it, it raises up and punches us in our face! We are so caught by surprise that there are few words that would adequately describe our reaction.

The overwhelming majority of us have been so involved with our everyday lives – handling our own business – that we never saw this coming our way! That’s the reason we’re so dumbfounded and numb.

We never saw “it” coming toward us! Suddenly and unexpectedly there “it” is! Right, directly, in front of us!

Bare! Black! SGL!

The “it” we never saw coming toward us? The mythology that was simply lying around: dormant. It was an old myth that none of us considered important. It was so completely and totally dormant that we had – intentionally or not – simply forgotten that “it” was “out” there. So irrelevant and useless that most of us never gave it any thought at all!

That old myth is this: Black people aren’t gay and they aren’t naked! White people are that way and they are “teaching” our people how to act and to be like that!

Believe it or not, like it or not, that old myth remains among us and with us. Another overwhelming majority of us may know it to be no more than what it really is: an old myth. A meaningless and useless thought left behind by hatred and homophobia. But wait! “It” is still with us.

Bare! Black! SGL! Continuation!

We do indeed live in the 21st Century. And yes, reality – real life – does afford us all with a multitude of opportunities to see examples and reminders of same gender love (SGL) as we go about our everyday lives handling our business. That’s just how this world is supposed to work.

We are all free to be ourselves. To be what and who we truly are. We should all remember that we are free to expect this from others as long as we show the same respect of freedom to all others! We all live in the same world, therefore, we all share the same world.

Nakedness and same gender love (SGL) may or may not be something that is essential or important to everyone and that is good. It is likewise good that we all accept and recognize that for some of us these aspects are crucial, vital and paramount in our lives. The same holds true for interracial couples and marriages – irregardless of the gender. The days of the iron-clad formula that Black should be with Black or that White should be with White are now long past.

Free to be themselves!

All of this I can share from personal experience. Following the arrival of marriage equality here during President Barack Obama’s second term in office, my then-partner, Aaron, and I took the path forward and became legally married (after incessant urgings from both of our sets of parents). My spouse is African-Canadian. I am Greek. An interracial union of two SGL men who prefer bare rather than textile (clothed). Ever since our wedding, we’ve both received an endless amount of comments from numerous casual acquaintances and/or co-workers about our “relationship.”

Kissing!

For some unimaginable reason, people – SGL couples included – have an issue or a problem when referring to a “marriage” between same gender partners. Is it our gender or is it our skin colour? Or is it a combination of the two?

Now back to the mysterious “it” that was creeping upon us earlier. “It” remains with us and will somehow prevail. Aaron and a multitude of others are actual breathing, living proof that the old myth is unfounded and untrue. There are Black men who are confident being bisexual or gay and who also enjoy and are proud being naked.

Pride!

The awesome reality of this predicament is that no one, Pink, Green, Blue or White had to “teach” him anything. He was born this way and has no shame of being who he is. He has no guilt in being who he is!

Enjoy the remainder of Black History Month, 2024!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, February 19, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Happy Hemisphere!”

NBHAAD: Part I!

Official notification!

Introduction:

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) occurs annually on February 7. This year, 2024, that date happens in the middle of the week on a Wednesday. Using the calendar to our benefit, publishing this post entry two days in advance affords us the chance to provide information of the significance of this occasion for all of us, not just African-Americans. That is the reason for today’s offering entitled:

“The Disproportionate Impact of HIV/AIDS on the Black Community!”

The purpose is to explore specific examples of disparities based on race that produced the multitude of deaths and infections within the African-American population here in the USA. “Disproportionate impact” refers to factors – beyond the control of those affected – that cause harm or injury to those being affected.

“NBHAAD: Part II!” is offered here on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, – the actual date for NBHAAD. It features an overall look at the offerings and provisions of the NBHAAD campaign.

Black SGL couple!

The Disproportionate Impact of HIV/AIDS on the Black Community!

To this day, there are some misinformation and myths surrounding the HIV/AIDS pandemic that remain within the minds of many Americans, even in the days of competition with the coronavirus COVID-19 period. One of the strongest of these untruths is that HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is an exclusively gay (same gender loving: SGL) disease. No matter of the scientific proof to the contrary, this falsehood remains. A close second place to this misconception is the unsubstantiated notion that Black people are highly susceptible to HIV.

In all honesty, it is the White population in the USA that has caused the alarmingly high rate of death and infection from HIV factors among African Americans. The serious mistrust of the public health services by persons of colour was caused and created by people of European descent (Caucasian/White) through bias, discrimination, hate, ignorance, prejudice and segregation. For generations, Black people suffered under the “Jim Crow” laws and separation. This resulted in numerous incidents and instances where the African Americans were subjected to trials and tribulations as “second class” recipients of poor care and mistreatment from the U.S. Public Health Service, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the local and state health services.

The most infamous and notorious of this disasters is known simply as the Tuskegee Experiment that was underway under the watch of the federal government from 1932 until 1972. It involved 400 Black men “officially” untreated by medicine in order to document and monitor the deterioration of health after being infected with syphilis. It was conducted in the deep south at the then Tuskegee Institute by doctors working for the federal government. Click the link below to see the study details on wikipedia:

Tuskegee Syphilis Study

Personally, when I first learned of this project, I was shocked that it was permitted to continue after the passage of legislation for equality in the 1960s. I was appalled that social consciousness didn’t end the study and that it was never an issue.  

NBHAAD Awareness Ribbon

The results of this maltreatment is the overwhelming reason for the deep and profound distrust of the CDC and the U.S. Public Health Service by the Black population. It was one of the major obstacles that resulted in the delay by the community of colour to the realities of the HIV/AIDS crisis. This, in turn, created the explosion of the new disease within this particular community and culture.

With the issue of distrust of the public health agencies as the primary source of the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS in the Black American community and culture, another very important factor was the cultural and racial insensitivity of educational and prevention information distributed among this population specifically and the general population as a whole. Too often, vague and ambiguous language and reasoning was employed when direct and simple language should have been presented and used.

The majority of Black adults were the products of segregated educational facilities – often resulting in limited comprehension of the materials provided to them. This unclear information caused confusion and misinterpretation that strengthened frustration and resentment. Government and politicians were well aware of this disparity and failed to address this problem.

Important reality!

For example, instead of “negotiating” the “effectiveness” of the use of a condom, the direct action approach: “tell him if he’s not wearing one, he’s not getting any!” would have deliberately delivered the message in a clear and concise manner. Minimal room for confusion and hesitation with a response such as that! The meaning is plain no matter the gender of the individual receiving the reply.

Distrust and insensitivity in communication are two of the examples offered for the high rates of HIV/AIDS deaths and infections within the African-American community and culture. Another example of almost equal importance is the prolonged inaction and inertia from the government departments over the staggering statistics. Prompt examination over the reported data clearly indicated a major breakdown and inappropriate flaw in the materials and methods long before a serious problem arose. Had discrimination and segregation not existed prior to the outbreak of HIV, the results could and probably would have been significantly different.

Due to budget constraints and the executive and legislative blindness of the republican politicians, funds for public health concerns and programs were severely hampered while defense spending soared.

This situation initiated a dilemma rarely believable in the supposedly wealthiest country in the world. Repeatedly, funds were scarce and demands on the necessity of compliance skyrocketed. Resources were completely unavailable and politicians refused to even consider any concession to ease the crisis for “those” people – the Blacks and other ethnic and racial minorities, the gays and the drug injectors. Evidently, the republican belief was that society could only benefit from the death of “those” people!

Vital message!

Financial assistance and grants to local public service agencies and not-for-profit organizations working within the Black community on a local basis would have greatly reduced the widespread gap between mistrust and trust that existed. A local establishment would have afforded both at atmosphere of credibility and recognition that would enhance the information and message delivered. This would have alleviated the stigma of HIV/AIDS as being a “homosexual White man’s disease.”

Awareness and pride!

“As committed, dedicated, honest, open and sincere bare practitioners (same gender loving naturists/nudists), all we desire is for the world to see us as we perceive ourselves: all naked, all natural. We have nothing to hide and are without reason for shame. We are proud of our nudity and our same gender love. They are not cause for embarrassment, fear or guilt. That is simply what and who we are in our life.” ~ Roger Poladopoulos-Peterson ~ Deaf Gay Alliance speech Washington, D.C., 4 December 2022

Yet another barrier created by both the republican executive and legislative arms of the federal government that fatally delayed and hindered any productive reaction from the community of colour to the ravages of this pandemic.

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Wednesday, February 7, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “NBHAAD Part II!”

Bottoms-Up! January, 2024

A stare and buttocks!

It’s January in the Northern Hemisphere and an overwhelming majority of us are enduring the month inside where we can keep warm and not force our buttocks to suffer the frigid temperatures outside! Comfort and consideration do over-rule the joy of natural nakedness!

Buttocks comparison!

A bottoms-up! enterprise: a dynamic duo coupled for fun! A wonderful way to spend a winter’s day! Taking advantage of the chance to explore the bottoms-up! universe together! A triumphant team effort!

Bottoms-up! to bottoms-up!

A well-deserved respite from a busy day! Companionship brings out the best for all the rest of us to look back and enjoy!

Dressing room bottoms-up!

The “winter workouts” at our local fitness center or gym can often add a “spice of delight” for fans of bottoms-up! enthusiasts!

A “beachy” bottoms-up!

While it’s winter in the Northern Hemisphere, the Southern Hemisphere is full of the excited exposure of bountiful buttocks from coast-to-coast!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, Thursday, February 1, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “USA: Black History Month!”

MLK’s Legacy!

Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Background:

Today marks the celebration and observation of both the official (actual) birthday and the Monday-holiday commemoration of the occasion both happening simultaneously.

Birthdate:

January 15, 1929

Nobel Peace Prize

Recipient

Awarded to him by His Majesty, King Gustav VI Adolph of Sweden on October 14, 1964.

Civil Rights Advocate

International

NonViolent Protest

Activist

Ordained clergyperson

Professional

Southern Christian Leadership Conference

Founder, 1957

Married: Coretta Scott King

Wife

Children: Yolanda, Martin L. King, III, Dexter Scott King, Bernice

USA: Presidential Medal of Freedom

Posthumously given, 1977

National March on Washington for Freedom and Jobs

Organizer, Keynote Speaker

August 28, 1963

Speech: “I Have A Dream”

*************************

Fortunately, we live in a world where there are others among us who are able to recall and remember the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Fortunately, we live in a world that is “all-too-gradually” witnessing the dreams of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. materialize into reality. Fortunately, we live in a world that recently experienced the overwhelming election and re-election of a Black man, Mr. Barack Hussein Obama, as president of the United States. This, too, was a dream of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Fortunately, we live in a world that is living in the times of the “Black Lives Matter” movement – a dynamic, growing and popular awakening of social conscience to the basic fact that African-American people are entitled to certain rights and responsibilities within this country and within our world. Another dream of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that has now become alive.

Equality and brotherhood!

Yes! We are indeed fortunate that we live in a world where the dreams of a visionary and historical inspiration, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. have come to pass. And we are grateful for his sacrifice and his struggle. His example and his leadership – in addition to his remarkable dreams – opened to doors towards equality and justice that few see in their lifetime!

His dreams, his foresight and his wisdom instill a feeling and sense of hope within us all. Yes, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. continues to offer and to provide all humanity with courage and with dignity his accomplishment and his achievement of fairness, of knowledge and of non-violence. During an era of degradation, discrimination and prejudice he overcame those obstacles and chose forgiveness, harmony and peace!

The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is and was a shining star who brightly guided our way into his dreams and himself into the dreams of many of us!

Wisdom from the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Unfortunately, we live in a world that continues to ignore and reject the profound and serious pronouncements of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In the United States today, despite the cultural, legal and social changes and progress that has occurred since his brutal assassination on April 4, 1968, many persons still refuse to accept the lessons of cooperation, forgiveness and inclusion that were endorsed and taught by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In their minds, when his memory is involved or his name is invoked, they see nothing except the colour of his skin as the sole cause of discarding his dreams of future harmony and understanding. They are powerless and unable to move beyond racial hatred.

Thankfully, the efforts and examples set by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. continue to diminish the numbers of those following hatred rather than healing. “Injustice anywhere remains a threat to justice everywhere.” A valid and unyielding truth!

In Israel today, the self-identified survivors of the the Nazi holocaust flagrantly demolish and evict native Palestinians from their United Nations sanctioned partition-designated homeland and property without concern for their safety, survivorship and well being. The so-called holocaust victims creating victims of their own inspired genocide. Cultural and ethnic hatred preferable to cultural and ethnic healing.

Ideally, the efforts and examples set by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will inspire harmony and healing in triumph over hatred. “Injustice anywhere remains a threat to justice everywhere.” A valid and unyielding truth!

The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. paramount speech, August 28, 1963!

Tragically and unfortunately, it is now evident that globally, throughout our world, all of us need to follow the important yet simple quotation from the wisdom of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. From the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict, the Congo, the Sudan, the Ukraine and elsewhere, “Injustice anywhere remains a threat to justice everywhere.” A valid and unyielding truth!

In 1964, our entire world watched as His Majesty, King Gustav VI Adolph of Sweden graciously bestowed the international Nobel Peace Prize upon the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A man who responded to the bias, condemnation and hatred of his contemporaries in a heroic, non-violent and peaceful manner. A man who through bravery and courage exemplified his gallant and noble legacy: “Injustice anywhere remains a threat to justice everywhere.” Timeless and valuable advice that is applicable to us all – forever!

Thank you, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., for your care, concern and forgiveness of us all!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, January 19, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Bare New Year!”

Stop! Confusion!

Halt! Stop!

Important Notice:

Before progressing it is necessary to inform all the reader’s here that ReNude Pride’s author – myself – has made a stupid error! After publishing my previous post entry here this past Monday, I became consumed with composing Bare Modesty? for today. An overly ambitious but also grave mistake by me! There is no one to blame but myself!

Although on holiday from university, I lacked the ability, the energy, the expertise, the skill and the talent to complete the intended posting. I became confused, distracted and totally helpless! It soon became obvious that I was unable to continue on the Bare Modesty? topic and meet the publication deadline. I am setting the entire project aside for the moment. I will publish it – revised – during next month.

I sincerely apologize for inconveniencing you. I ask for your forgiveness and understanding. I am truly sorry for having confusing you like I have been confused. In summation, I offer the old adage: “Two wrongs do not equal one right!”

********************

Offering directions!

Now let’s direct this idea forward. Today’s substitute entry will approach the topic of modesty but from a completely different angle. Hence, the choice of the header image just below the article title to this – my blunder! This photograph depicts a bare practitioner using a fig leaf with his outstretched palm, indicating “stop!” His genitalia is theoretically “covered” by the proverbial fig leaf, yet his nakedness remains implied, obvious and understood by all.

Instead of concealing his penis, the fig leaf has the exact opposite effect. It directs our attention and focus on his state of being bare – body and clothes freedom – and not the usefulness of the fig leaf itself: covering. Hiding. Disguising. Concealment.

A very inefficient and poor attempt to satisfy one’s intention: modesty!

Also, an excellent and opportune linkage of this, a substitute composition, to the intended topic of modesty itself! Completely unplanned and yet a total coincidence! At least, this provides me the chance to offer this substitute entry as an “introductory prologue” to the upcoming publication of the original planned topic of Bare Modesty?

I earlier published here regarding the fig leaf and censorship. Please click the title below to visit that posting:

Lose The Fig Leaf!

Ineffective covering!

The utilization of the fig leaf for modesty is biblically referenced but lacks any proof or additional notation of supposed divine inspiration. The practice actually gained acceptance and notoriety later when artistically inspired to comply with popular religious developments to disguise the profusion of nudity in ecclesiastical artifacts: carvings, icons, portraits and statues.

This concept grew in both popularity and practice even though it became identified as a means of including blatantly naked representation within acceptable sacred approval.

Thus, church censorship and elimination of offensive – therefore unholy – nude depictions in ecclesiastical facilities and possession inadvertently preserved the evolution into the pornography business today.

There is no wonder of the obsession of the clergy over the current excesses of pornographic material! They have no one else to blame for it’s prevalence besides themselves or rather, their own professional forebears!

Confused!

The sense of confusion undergoing the ecclesiastical elite is comprehensible. They are the responsible authorities who defiled and determined that a creation of their deity was indecent, offensive and unfit for public exposition!

Not only did they endorse the concept and practice of social nudity by decorating it with a fig leaf; they also encouraged the growth and popularity of the ideal! Basically and essentially they had canonized both the fig leaf and the state of public nakedness! Their actions (or inactions) created a shared bonding of the fig leaf and naked as one common and united factor that has become body and clothes freedom: a movement that advocates and supports social nudity both privately and publicly everywhere.

As a bare practitioner, does this mean that my spouse, Aaron, and I are now sanctified? I already know that we are both saints but this status carries us into an entirely higher level of church endorsed responsibility!

Felipe Ferreira poses with an enlarged fig leaf!

The association of the fig leaf with nakedness introduces an entirely new relationship into the purpose of and the definition of modesty. From this perspective, fig leaf and nakedness and modesty itself now become a synonymous dynamic. Fig leaf implies cover (hide). Nakedness implies nudity. Modesty implies cover (hide). Therefore, nakedness or nudity are identical and/or synonymous throughout.

Or perhaps I have created even more confusion in this ambiguous post entry. Only time will reveal the truth. However, this remains as my prologue to Bare Modesty?

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, January 15, 2024, and the proposed topic is: ” MLK’s Legacy!”