My spouse, Aaron, and I are unable to find a compromise as to precisely when “mid-summer” occurs. Trust me, we aren’t the only two who are clueless as to the date. None of our acquaintances or friends offer any solutions. Somehow, it seems that this the existence of a “mid-summer” date is actually is a myth created to confuse us all or to make chaos for everyone.
But no matter if it is imagined or real, it does serve as an inspiration for this post entry and as a name for this photographic series, “Mid-Summer Dream” – so christened by my spouse. The reasoning for his naming? It’s a bromantic skinny-dipping fantasy! Also, the pictures themselves have a somewhat vague, dream-like quality. Besides, the very concept of something as being so very mid-summer is itself appealing and mysterious!
Artistic posing!
A vague time and date but quite a very soothing and tranquil setting: a body of water with both of the subjects confidently and conveniently bare and relaxed. The aqua serves as a reflective tool for what we observe shared between the interracial couple: intimacy and trust.
Intensity together!
The duo transpire the message of “equal partners.” Neither one offers any suggestion of the notion of dominance or superiority. They seem very comfortable and on equal footing in every posing.
Their nakedness is unashamed!
An integral aspect of their relationship is their acceptance of one another and the absence of any concern in their being clothes free and open for all to see.
Calm and collected as one!
There’s no denying their affection and devotion to one another as they together experience a skinny-dip to refresh themselves from the summer heat. The message conveyed through their body language is one of contented relaxation!
Eye-to-eye contact!
Once they’re free from the stress of wearing clothing, it’s indeed amazing at how free the body responds in really tranquil situations. We can finally focus on simply being together with one another!
Together as one!
Side-by-side and hip-to-hip are ideal ways to pose to convey the message of togetherness. Of unity and complete commitment: a couple!
Hand-in-hand!
Holding onto one another is another example of body language that represents “joined” to the rest of the world. It suggests a union that is unable to be destroyed!
Together!
Their devotion and intimacy not only resounds through their poses together but also in the figures they convey through the positioning of their bodies. It is obvious to everyone viewing these images that something comforting, relaxing, peaceful and passionate exists between these two men. This, essentially, is the ultimate dream of the majority of us. Our foundation – together!
Aaron and I appreciate the subtle messages shared in these images here. Our upcoming anniversary next month is on display through this posting.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, July 24, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “July Captivity!”
Frequently, the question is raised in the media as to why we, the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (GLBTQ+) communities and cultures have the need for a pride celebration. This concern is not only presented in the media networks focused primarily on the general populations but also on those geared towards our own featured community and culture. Many feel we have enjoyed all we can of our different lives. Why even bother to continue?
A pose of pride!
Another question often expressed by my spouse, Aaron, and I between ourselves and when in the company of our friends is: of all the communities and cultures present in this country today, why is the question insistently raised concerning our community and culture specifically? If the issue is of the concern of others, why isn’t the same question asked of others? We’re not the only ones to have a month dedicated to celebrating and saluting our own.
Bare happiness and fun!
Fortunately, not everyone is aware of the fact that we here on ReNude Pride endorse not only GLBTQ+ Pride but we also include the bare practitioners within our observance. Thankfully, this aspect remains beyond the realm of appreciation and comprehension for many of those who are critical of our inclusiveness!
Among us bare practitioners, when the question of Why pride? is imposed, very often the response is delivered as Why not? One question deserves more than the reply with another interrogation. However, the inquiry does warrant some investigation.
Teaser!
The endless questioning of the continuance of the necessity of pride by our community and culture supports the existence of prejudice against us all. It may not be as blatant and prevalent as it once was, however, it remains present. As long as this discrimination is evident and felt, yes, pride is needed. Until we communally and culturally receive the same amount of consideration and respect as shown to others, no matter their race, ethnicity, ability, gender, age or heritage, yes, pride is needed! Distrust is a detriment to acceptance and equality.
The determination that a certain action or behaviour is illegal by legislative or parliamentary approval or even a royal proclamation doesn’t immediately erase the behaviour out of existence. It isn’t innate – it is learned – from parents, teachers, clergy, et al. A learned behaviour is the most difficult to eliminate.
Siblings with pride!
A learned behaviour is a prejudice, plain and simple. It is not based on concrete knowledge or scientific fact. It is solely attributed on the often unsupported opinion of others, usually substantiated by myth or rumour. As such, it is virtually impossible to eradicate and generally increases in intensity.
The persistence of prejudice thus acquired ensures the continuation of prejudice. An act of parliament may outlaw the prejudice but it doesn’t eliminate it.
The reality of someone, questioning their emotional and physical feelings, experiencing confusion, turmoil and confrontation with prejudice. This person, alone or in the company of others, justifies the celebration and observation of pride. Everyone deserves the chance to develop and grow in happiness, security and pride!
Pride!
On a global/international scale, some countries and/or societies are developed and progressive and others are conservative, slower and still a few remain isolated and stagnant. Each nation and society pursues the course according beliefs, needs and traditions – of the power structure (politics) or of the population in general. Hence the diversity of cultures, religions, values, etc. As in individual cases, inherited values are the same as learned behaviours. These are likewise the most difficult to alter or to change. For this reason, deviation from the custom or tradition evolves slowly and tediously. Progress, especially to new ideals and philosophies, is very cautious and relaxed.
In my humble opinion, as long as there is – at the very least – one person who benefits from the observance of a pride event, then yes, it remains necessary and valid. I understand those who feel that pride has become too redundant and too repetitive. I only want to encourage them to get involved in planning the next activity and to offer creativity and variety into the format.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, June 27, 2023, and the proposed topic is “HIV Testing Day!”On Wednesday, the anniversary of Stonewall, “Pride: SIR!” is planned for posting.
” We face automobile traffic with our naked bodies as the best way of defending our dignity and exposing the unique dangers faced by cyclists and pedestrians as well as the negative consequences we all face due to dependence on oil and other forms of nonrenewable energy.” ~ World Naked Bike Ride Mission Statement ~
Body message!
There is no official date for the World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR). Each ride, wherever it occurs, is considered an individual event and is sponsored and happens accordingly. The mission and message are the same for all the rides. The dress code motto for the WNBR is: “bare as you dare.”
The WNBR utilizes nudity as a tool to focus on cycling and the folly of oil dependency. It is believed that nudity represents human vulnerability.
Although nudity is a integral part of the event and its concept, the policy is not necessarily exclusively naked. It is understood that some persons as well as cultures have issues with public nudity. Therefore, participation in WNBR isn’t restricted by any clothing concern. Participants are all welcome, nude or clothed (textile).
WNBR with his Rainbow flower garland!
Similarly, the event is considered a bike ride but isn’t limited to just bicycles. Skateboarding, online skating, unicycling, are encourages in addition to bicycles. Jogging, running and walking is also allowed. Participants are known to transport themselves using their own wheelchairs, either manually or powered. The WNBR strives to be inclusive for all persons with differing abilities.
The ideals espoused by WNBR are to raise awareness of bicycling safety and rights, as well as those of pedestrians, raise awareness of ending dependence on fossil-fuels, to offer attention to our natural ecosystems. A secondary essence in recent years has been awareness of naturism and nudism.
WNBR participant!
There is no recommended date or time for WNBR. The global audience allows each organizing group to determine the best season and time of the year for each event. This results in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres the ability to host events when the weather is best for the local participants. The specific details for hosting WNBR events vary from location to location in addition to national boundaries.
One of the major advantages of the WNBR is that because it happens throughout the world, not only does it occur all during the entire year, it also caters to the weather conditions within both of the hemispheres. This enables more participation, awareness and encourages fund-raising activities. Each event is responsible for generating the cost of providing services.
WNBR, London, UK!
For additional information on the World Naked Bike Ride, visit their website:
World Naked Gardening Day (WNGD) is a fun event celebrated on the first Saturday of May, annually. In 2023, it occurs on tomorrow, 6 May. Gardeners from all over the world get together – at least, in spirit, – to attend to their flowers and plants wearing no clothes or shoes, although hats and sunglasses are permitted!
World Naked Gardening Day (WNGD) is a recent occasion it was first observed in September, 2005, and the same month in 2006. In 2007, the official date was determined to be the first Saturday in May and has remained so since. Due to the differences in the climate globally, some countries hold their own date for the event, such as Canada (June, every year) and New Zealand (October).
Indoor gardening!
Prior to the coronavirus COVID-19 quarantine and restrictions, my spouse, Aaron, and I hosted a World Naked Gardening Day indoor plant re-potting event in our condominium. We invite several other bare practitioner couples to participate and offer them a luncheon. The guests would arrive, we’d all strip out of our clothing and collectively re-pot our indoor plants from one pot into another one, slightly larger. The actual repotting would happen on our small balcony. We’d attach bedsheets to the balcony railing so as not to discomfort neighbors and to allow us our nude freedom.
Aaron and I plan to hang these bedsheets today, the day before WNGD. This enables our curious neighbors to already notice the feature and to become acquainted with it in place. It also helps to insure our privacy from voyeurs! To assure us from any breezes causing a flapping of the sheets, we have extra-large safety pins to keep the sheet layers intact.
The coronavirus quarantine suspended our World Naked Gardening Day (WNGD) festivities for 2020, 2021 and 2022. This year will be our first hosting of our WNGD tradition and we have made certain our guests are as enthusiastic about the resumption of the activity, just as Aaron and I both are! Adhering to recent practices, the number of guests we’ve invited for WNGD, 2023, is considerably reduced. We simply don’t have the space inside our condominium to allow everyone a comfortable distance apart. In addition, we need to be respectful of our neighbors and their concerns.
World Naked Gardening Day celebration!
Aaron and I are careful to make certain that the safety and health of our fellow gardeners is a primary issue. Hopefully, we can eliminate any transmission of any variant, known or unknown, of the infectious coronavirus. We are providing disposable facial masks and hand sanitizer for all guests. We also have disposable gloves available.
My spouse, as our WNGD chef, has always concocted delicious brunch delights for our consumption. In keeping with safety guidelines, this year we’re offering baked goods only and fresh fruit. Aaron is disappointed his culinary abilities aren’t being utilized but he understands the need for caution. A repeat massive mandatory quarantine is not on anyone’s “wish list!”
The routine for the actual gardening aspect this year basically is the same as in previous times. The focus is on repotting an indoor plant for personal use. As urban residents, a pot and a plant is our only option as a naked gardener. Our shared circumstances enable us to grow a body and clothes freedom community!
We offer what we are able for all to enjoy! Happy World Naked Gardening Day!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, Saturday, May 6, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Commonwealth Coronation Day!”
Heart of a Lion Mosy in bed Being a nomad in this no man’s land isn’t always death, despair and sorrow. It also has treasures, and magical life changing encounters. That’s exactly how I’d describe my encounter with Mosy. As it turned out, we were both most battered and wounded. We immediately became each other’s […]
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Sunday, April 30, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! April, 2023!”
Notation: I really was inspired by this posting by my fellow bare practitioner. blogging buddy and friend, Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai! If not already, follow his site for future postings of insight and delight! Naked hugs!
Daymin Voss: Openly bare practitioner and gay pornographic star!
The purpose of today’s post entry originally was to endorse Daymin Voss (pictured above) as the personification of this site. About a year ago, I published a tribute to him extolling his bare practitioner attributes as well as his dedication to social nudity and his proud representation of his maschalagnia (hairy armpit obsession). My fascination with Daymin Voss has by no means subsided, but in composing this post entry, I have altered the focus from one individual to a collection of aspects of commendable admiration that I feel are equally important to our community and our culture. Hence, an expansion of the personification theme!
Personification!
Regardless of the multitude of characteristics of our personality, there are certain “truths” that very few – if any – of us are able to conceal. The above “header” (image) is a prime example. One of the purposes of ReNude Pride is to offer some semblance of guidance and inspiration to fellow bare practitioners everywhere. Since one of the identifying qualities of being a bare practitioner is same gender loving (gay, lesbian or bisexual), the above opening becomes self-explained. I’m a same gender loving man (gay). Honestly, I doubt that anyone here ever needed that detail published.
Roger and the rainbow flag!
I’ll readily own the fact that now I’m fast approaching redundancy here. The above picture confirms my same gender attraction (gay rainbow flag) and my body and clothes freedom nature (naturist/nudist). It’s also a photo that my spouse, Aaron, (photo below) took of me several years ago before the Progress rainbow flag was adopted. Also, Aaron and I were legally married in 2015. And yes, we are both committed bare practitioners.
My spouse, Aaron!
Another aspect to share is that I am a very amateur photographer. Although I enjoy using a camera and personally captured the above of Aaron, my skills in this art are, at best, non-existent. Usually, I decapitate my subject – photo-wise only!
Kory Mitchell, tats and underarm fur!
I freely acknowledge my maschalagnia! The more than 700+ post entries here are evidence of this fact as is the picture of my spouse shared previously. While we’re on the subject of body hair and nakedness, here is a quote from my beloved:
“Body hair and nakedness are compatible and natural. They compliment one another; like a rose blooming an a bush.” ~ Aaron Michael Peterson-Poladopoulos ~ March 28, 2022
“I love you” International Sign Language and body art!
I was born profoundly Deaf. My identical twin brother and I attended Deaf schools our entire lives. Aaron learned American Sign Language (ASL) because of a Deaf cousin (before we met). His proficiency in that skill has expanded since we’ve been together and he is now fluent (manually) in Greek Sign Language (my first language). This situation has introduced us both into increased advocacy and awareness for equality for all persons with differing abilities (disabilities). Physical, emotional and mental challenges are no reason to deny anyone equality or human rights.
Interracial bromance!
As an interracial couple – in particular, a bare practitioner interracial couple – we have experienced first-hand and personally the discrepancies in behaviour and reactions that others have endured. Likewise, we have also had very courteous treatment where it was least expected. Not just here, but also abroad (overseas).
The USA most definitely needs to seriously adjust and improve the treatment it offers the communities of people with differing abilities. If one espouses equality then one should practice equality. Simple “lip-service” to a concept or ideal in no way combats bigotry and prejudice.
A textile minority!
As advocates and proponents of bare practitioners and equality, we both, Aaron and myself, accept and acknowledge that there are persons who, for whatever the reason, are genuinely unclear and uncomfortable with a unique situation – especially one that puts them in the minority status, be it race, same gender love, nudity, differing ability, communication, equality, heritage, etc. Whatever the insecurity, it causes an anxious response. In this environment, patience, tolerance and understanding help to reduce anxiety and calm the involvement. Discomfort is a natural reaction that produces anger, distrust and resentment.
Happiness!
Sharing happiness is one of my personal Spring resolutions, 2023! One of the available tools is through ReNude Pride. Thank you all for providing me this opportunity!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Friday, April 7, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Environment!”
March is here and Spring, 2023, has now officially arrived! We all have so much to look forward to for the remainder of the year! Take advantage of every opportunity to strip off those pants and show the entire world that you are bottoms up! and proud!
Anonymous buttocks: tanline!
Buttocks of protection!
His buttocks haven’t seen the sunlight in quite a long time!
Looking for the arrival of Spring!
Buttocks of anticipation!
Their buttocks waiting to welcome the Springtime!
Buttocks of eagerness!
Enthusiasm with the approaching change of seasons!
Cuddles: buttocks and face!
Buttocks of Comfort!
Cuddling togetherness!
Furry warmth!
Buttocks of natural fur!
Covered in body hair but thankfully razor-free!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, Saturday, April 1, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “April Showers!”
Hopefully, a few laughs to welcome the first official weekend of the Spring, 2023, season! Best wishes to everyone for a very enjoyable, safe and pleasant weekend! Perhaps you can make undressing (removing) clothing into a game, too!
Stripping Game #1
Acquaintances sometimes ask my spouse, Aaron, and I what do you guys do when you’re at home and naked? Well, we do have certain games that we play together.
Stripping Game #2
One is a useful routine where we alternately become comfortable by stripping off our clothing and tossing the discarded garment to one another.
Stripping Game #3
It really is totally in fun and does make baring ourselves enjoyable and relaxing!
Stripping Game #4
A word of caution: removing the belt before tossing your pants is highly recommended!
Stripping Game #5
Of course, on occasions we have engaged in a race as to which one of us can “out-strip” the other!
Stripping Game #6
I’m certain that everyone can imagine a few other enlightened activities to attempt while striving to become completely free of the clothing dilemma!
An ideal finale to any clothes removal!
Get creative and enjoy your own bare competitions! Perhaps we can introduce a new category into the next summer Olympiad!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, Saturday, March 25, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Hellenic Revival!”
The examination and exploration of the topic of “race” extends beyond the limited concepts of Black people and White people. It includes all of us, no matter our skin tone. Race, unfortunately, is also aligned with culture, religion and value systems. For this reason, among others, ReNude Pride does not restrict the issue exclusively to the period within Black History Month.
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“Race Cooper” is the stage name (professional name) of Joseph Ross Anderson, who was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on December 5, 1973. Amazing, he didn’t initiate his “mid-life” crisis into gay pornography until 2009 when he was 36 years old – an age when most same gender loving men retire from acting and posing. In the same year that he began his film career, he also began publishing his own blog on blogspot.com and soon acquired notoriety in both worlds as a “man-who-tells-it-all!”
“Racism takes many forms and our thoughts on racism and sex need to change.” ~ Race Cooper ~ June 10, 2020
Race started his blog in late 2009, and when I discovered the site in 2010, he had already become famous not only as a gay actor but also as the man who often opened the public’s eyes to what happens to men behind the camera! He frequently published copies of letters he received from studio executives complaining of his public disclosure of actions “behind the scenes!”
Race Cooper, “bottoms-up!”
Like my spouse, Aaron, Race grew up in Canada and is baffled at the differences in racism between Canada and the USA. Many people are unaware that slavery existed in both places during the colonial times. Slavery never achieved the institutional status that it enjoyed in the USA south. Canada, being further north, could not grow the cotton, sugar and other products that accompanied slavery. Also, the violent revolutionary war brought an end to British rule in the USA but Canada evolved to the confederation of a dominion under the British crown. Parliament banned slavery within the British Empire in 1833. The civil war ended slavery in the USA in 1865.
In his perspective, Race Cooper based on his own experience in the gay porn industry, views racism as “a daily constant in the USA.” He began working as a casting director for the same gender loving studio = Raging Stallion – before he moved to performing in front of the camera in 2009. He acknowledges that he was paid considerably less than his White peers and regularly and repeatedly had his work ethic and intelligence questioned. He honestly believes that he was only hired initially in order for the studio to appear “less racist.”
Race was interviewed by The Pink News, a same gender loving – GLBTQ+ – news service in London, England, United Kingdom. He was a presenter at a Commonwealth Conference on GLBTQ+ Persons happening there. The Pink News Service wanted his views on racial inequality in the bisexual and gay pornography profession in light of the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement. He also wants the porn studios to openly admit that many White men (straight) have been cast into roles catering to same gender loving audiences instead of actual Black gay men.
As a path forward, he’d like to see studios, pornography or otherwise, hire “diversity mentors” to help with casting and hopefully these mentors could help advance the careers of actors of colour. He also advocates the ending of “gay-for-pay” performers and an end to the shunning of HIV+ actors.
Racism in the USA is the reasoning for discrimination and prejudice. It is a direct part of the legacy of the legal institution of slavery. In Canada, race is quite simply a difference. For example, you shave your pubic hair, I let mine grow naturally. We’re both gay men, we’re just different in some ways.
Race Cooper: tunnel!
Canada had slavery in the early years; it just wasn’t a permanent status like in the USA. You were bought, you worked a couple of years and earned your freedom and then you were neighbors and moved on. No one was ever subservient for their entire lives.
“As a Black gay man, I know and have witnessed bias, hatred and prejudice because of race and sexual orientation. It is unfair and unjust. It is wrong. As a performer in the porn industry, I’ve never been criticized for being publicly nude. But I do know of fellow nudists who are judged because of their being naked. Our nakedness is part of who we are. Like race and sexuality, we don’t have a choice.”~ Race Cooper ~ June 10, 2020
In the conclusion of his interview, Race Cooper offered – in my own humble opinion – his most daring and profound argument against bigotry, discrimination and judgment based not only on race, sexual orientation but on nakedness as well. This statement was made own his own initiative and observation when asked if he had any additional thoughts to add.
Addendum: The interviewer added this notation to their article with The Pink News. Race Cooper had given this in addition to the regular questioning. When appearing at a bisexual and gay men’s event at the Raging Stallion’s studio, he excused himself and removed all of his clothing. He then returned to the gathering. Silence took over before the few other Black performers started stripping off their clothing, too. The White men present, both bisexual, gay or straight, simply sat there, staring, their mouths hanging open.
Race, upon being asked why he was naked, replied: We’re all paid to perform nude. Why not socialize nude, too?
Proof positive that Joseph Ross Anderson (Race Cooper) is – heart and soul – a brother bare practitioner and all of us welcome him and embrace his inclusiveness in our community and in our culture. True equality is a basic human right for everyone of us!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, March 10, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “DST Is Back!”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 