Both my spouse, Aaron, and I now fanatically disregard and/or ignore the inconvenient habit of “new year’s resolutions!” We live in the Northern Hemisphere; it is barren and cold here. Neither one of us is motivated enough to initiate any life altering changes during this period of frigid outdoor temperatures. Additionally, the hours of natural daylight is reduced due to the position of the sun. Who needs another impediment?
Instead of trying and then trying, again, to introduce a change in our daily routine, Aaron and I opt to focus on the positive and play (have fun or “make mischief”) while we’re confined indoors due to the inclement weather conditions outside. Our goal is to survive the hibernation as best as we possibly can and introduce the practice of “Spring Resolutions” – change as the climate and daylight improves!
This alternate plan not only reduces the risk of failure and frustration of these resolutions. The mental process of adaptation is better in Spring than it is during the Winter which greatly adds to the chances of success.
Also, the return of colour, as in the flowers and the foliage, to the natural environment enhances productivity and an encouraging outcome. This helps us to stay positive and resourceful. The longer spans of daylight boosts our flexibility!
Reduce the number of goals! A lower amount increases both achievement and concentration! One step forward makes the result realistic!
Interested? Would you like to try it? I’ll publish a gentle reminder this upcoming March!
Play naked!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, December 16, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Good-bye Boxers!”
The title “Bare-dom” and posting were originally planned for today’s entry here. However, the feeling on my part, as the author of ReNude Pride is that this particular posting is more prominent and more relevant. “Bare-dom” is now planned for publication in February, 2023. I apologize for any confusion!
Background:
The term political correctness is a concept that began with the advent of the first inauguration of then-incoming President Bill Clinton in the 1990’s. The phrase was synonymous with the words “thoughtfulness,” “sensitivity” and basically “polite.” It essentially implied “respect and treat others as you expect them to treat and respect you.”
Unfortunately, the idea was never accepted or followed by the religious-right extremists nor the U.S. republican political party. Once George Bush #2 came into power, the principle rapidly fell into disfavor then totally abandoned.
The election of President Barack Obama brought the theory but not the original phrase back into practice. Regrettably, when he retired, the practice did also. Now even the thought of such a notion as decency has disappeared from the ideals and minds of the American public. The thinking these days is now: nogooddeedgoesunpunished!
The context and point here is simple: we need to return to the basic “ground rule” of decency for everyone. This country, especially, is now too multicultural and varied for us to automatically assume that all the people who live here have identical beliefs and values. That path of thinking is now misinformed, obsolete and no longer relevant. Probably, it is something that is no longer true even within the same family, much less the neighborhood, community, city and state.
Even within the same religion, there exist varying traditions. For example, within Christianity, there are differences in when certain holidays are celebrated and/or observed. One assumption doesn’t apply to everyone anymore.
Observation: not included on the above listing is December 26: Boxing Day in the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and other realms throughout the Commonwealth!
My spouse, Aaron, and I have discussed this quite a number of times among ourselves and with friends. There is no doubt in our minds whatsoever that all of us need to be considerate of one another and work together to restore an element of humanity back into our daily lives!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Monday, December 12, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Resolutions Solution!”
The Red Ribbon symbolizes World AIDS Day and HIV/AIDS awareness!
Proudly show that you are aware and that you care. Wear your red ribbon!
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Basic Facts About HIV/AIDS:
HIV is the virus that causes AIDS.
AIDS is a result of being infected with HIV.
HIV is not spread through everyday, casual contact.
A physician is needed to diagnose AIDS.
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Red ribbon = HIV/AIDS awareness and concern!
“It’s not who we are, but rather what we do that determines the risk factor of HIV infection.” ~ Red Cross HIV/AIDS prevention education ~
Follow protocols for reducing HIV infections:
Do not share needles, syringes or drug use tools.
Avoid contact with body fluids.
Treat everyone with care and respect.
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Since the first World AIDS Day observance on December 1, 1988. The date was first conceived in August, 1987, by James Bunn and Thomas Netter, two public information officers for the Global Programme on AIDS at the World Health Organisation in Geneva, Switzerland.
Each year, Popes John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis have released messages for both patients and health care providers on World AIDS Day. They have also publicly offered prayers for a world living with HIV.
In the USA, the White House (presidential home) began observing World AIDS Day under the administration of President Clinton and the iconic display of a 28-foot massive Red AIDS Awareness Ribbon on the North Portico of the building. It was the first banner to prominently hang from the White House since the presidency of Abraham Lincoln.
Get tested! Know your HIV status!
Remember: a latex condom every time!
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A Red Ribbon on World AIDS Day!
Public Testimonial
by Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai
It was in the late autumn of 1978 that I came into this world. My mom would always tell me that I was an overdue birth; as it I didn’t want to leave the womb. I see it like being cuddled up in bed. Who’d want to leave such a comfy spot? To this very day, that has still remained my all-time favourite activity.
So being born in 1978 meant that I grew up in the 80’s. Wow! What a decade! Madonna, Punk fashions, Hurricane Gilbert and skyrocketing food prices – if you’re Jamaican – and…AIDS!
Being an island didn’t mean that we were isolated from world issues, especially when your island is renowned for its culture, its beaches, its sunshine and sex. I saw all the AIDS prevention ads on TV: “AIDS kills,” “stick to one steady partner,” “use a condom,” and “you can’t tell by looking.” I grew up scared! I grew up being scared of actually growing up!
Throughout high school, we teens would laugh about stuff pertaining to sex and sexuality, there was little or no sex education in school and what we learned came from porn, the dancehall music or the local pastor. The radio broadcast the death of Freddie Mercury. I remember that so well because I was wearing a Queen t-shirt at that very moment! I heard of Arthur Ashe; in school we talked and laughed about the death of Rock Hudson – I didn’t know who he was at that time. But the dearest tragedy for me was when I learned that Olympic diver Greg Louganis was diagnosed HIV+. I was personally touched because I knew who he was. He was my hero, a gay Olympic champion! And, of course, during the 80’s and 90’s, they constantly reminded us of the growing numbers of new cases.
Greg Louganis, Olympic gold medal winner!
So as I fast forward a bit to young adult, HIV/AIDS was less and less stranger. It was now a reality. It had faces! And faces that I knew!
I made friends with people working in the local AIDS support association and the church I attended did volunteering and outreach. Being scared didn’t shield me from the harsh realities of my life. I wasn’t going to be spared. AIDS was not going to have pity. Not on this little island boy. No sir!… Familiar faces kept vanishing, boys I fell in love with kept getting sick: Julian, Everton, Fred, Frank. A church member was dying. I saw their faces. I saw their bodies lying on the hospital beds. I saw them agonizing. I saw them dying…I loved them. I loved them as hard as I could. I held them in my heart; it’s all I could have done.
There was only love, that’s what they needed, not pity or shame, but Love. I understood that. I had that gift.
Allisson was my elder. She and I were friends, we weren’t that close. She was the first child my dad got from his first relationship, so, we were as close as two half-siblings who were ten years apart could be. She had her life and her family: boyfriend, son and daughter. I checked in with her as often as I could. I still thank God for that last moment I spent with her. It was in the local store where she worked. Allisson was standing there behind the counter. She looked so thin, so pale, so not all together there. Nothing could have prepared me for that grim phone call I’d received a few years later…AIDS took my beloved sister.
Princess Diana: first person of prominence to casually greet a person living with AIDS.
To be honest I did my best to play it safe, but I also took my fair share of risks. I even slept with the enemy. Why I didn’t remember all those faces, all those bodies I saw, covered in sores, laying on those hospital beds? Why didn’t I remember the agony? I should have ran! But I didn’t…I wanted cuddles instead. It only takes one encounter. I slept with this guy twice in the Summer of 2005 I was diagnosed in the Fall of that very same year. Painful urine and a creamy white substance leaking from my penis made me go to the doctor real quick.
I was alone when I went to the doctor’s, I was alone when the doctor broke the news, I was alone when I went to the hospital to have his diagnosis confirmed. I was alone to face the stark reality that I was not going to be living a normal life. Oddly though, the news that I was HIV positive wasn’t as earth shattering. It didn’t have that devastating effect as I had imagined. I didn’t scream, or cry, or ask God why? Maybe it’s my way of dealing with trauma: in silence.
My explanation is that, growing up gay prepared me for days like these. If I could handle growing up gay in a homophobic society such as mine, anything else would be a piece of cake. I kind of figured that, somehow it’s kind of logical, sad way to think. I agree it’s a bit fatalistic: being gay isn’t a death sentence! But for me it was. So I imagine I was accepting my fate. My mom was right. A gay life is one of damnation and hellfire. And this was exactly what I deserved.
Since then, I’ve celebrated seventeen birthdays, visited six countries and changed two jobs. I have met my beautiful niece who is also living with the disease as she was contaminated at birth and I am currently in a stable long-term relationship. I am disciplined regarding my meds and my combat still rages more than ever. I can’t say that I have had to face discrimination regarding AIDS as not that many people know. I do my best to stay healthy, “Sound Mind, Sound Body.” I workout regularly and I combat negativity. I have grown to love myself, understand and own who I am and cultivate self-worth. I was young but now I am mature, I have seen my friends fallen by the wayside but I am still here. I had to learn gratitude.
Living with HIV is a daily reminder that I need to turn fear and trauma into triumph. I have had a new beginning, renewed hope. A fighting chance. I have to believe, not only in myself but in whatever higher power there may be. I need to believe that somewhere out there and also within, there is a greater power…love! Doesn’t love conquer all?
Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai, our guest author!
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I am very appreciative of Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai for sharing his personal testimonial with all of us here on ReNude Pride on the occasion of World AIDS Day,2022. His courage and honesty is a remarkable and significant accomplishment that indeed reflects his dedication to dispelling myths and misinformation about being same gender loving (gay) as well as about living with HIV. He is a commendable guest author and I sincerely invite him to contribute whenever possible!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for tomorrow, Friday, December 2, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Seasonal Signs!”
On the behalf of ReNude Pride, it is a distinct honour that I introduce to all of you, Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai! He informs me that the Nubian-Ikigai is colourful nickname of sorts that references his spirit. Any more detailed explanation will have to come directly from him! Rohan is his given name.
He is from the priceless jewel of the Caribbean Sea, Jamaica! He openly identified himself to me as a proud bare practitioner – a man after my own heart! That is precisely how he introduced himself!
I first noticed Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai in September of this year when he posted a comment on my announcement of the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. He wrote that she was also the Queen of Jamaica as part of the Commonwealth. We have since become blood brothers! As a fellow subject of the Commonwealth, my Canadian spouse, Aaron, has a fondness for him!
Rohan currently lives in France with his partner. He is employed as an English language coach/tutor. His ambition is to compose his autobiography!
Rohan from Jamaica!
Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai on being gay:
Growing up, what were you taught about being gay?
This is a tough and tricky question to answer. I don’t know what angle to take on this, so I’ll take a human approach…What was I taught about being gay? Nothing…It’s funny, some boys can say that they learned about being a man, shooting a rifle or hunting and some girls learned about being a good wife. I picked up stuff along the way. I observed human behaviour and I listened attentively to what was said.
I understood early on that being gay was a disgrace, punishable by death, hell and damnation. I learned you’d be better off having Stage 4 cancer than being gay. I was taught that I’d better hide and stay hidden otherwise there’s gonna be gunshots and a lynching for my “batty-boy” (Jamaican derogatory term for gay man) head! Besides, who would want to be guilty of teaching anyone about being gay? I took the burden upon myself.
To your knowledge, were any members of your family gay?
My first gay experience was with a close cousin who happened to be a year younger than me. This happened during my formative years, I was about 8 or 9 years old. It went on for 2 years during the summer holidays when he’d come to visit from the USA. Let’s call him Kevin. Irony of this is I don’t know if he’s gay as we’ve lost contact. Who knows, it may have been his fault why I am gay today. I think there’s another distant cousin who could be gay.
Did you have any friends who were bisexual or gay?
Yes and not only. As an adult, my friends were gay and bisexual and also female. As a matter of fact, I’ve been in love with quite a few females. I do fantasize and have wet dreams about women (laughs).
At what age did you begin to realize that you are gay?
Another tricky question (laughs)! If I refer go back to question #2. I’d say, I was born this way (laughs). My relationship with my cousin was a natural progression. We were cousins, by blood; we met then became friends and ended up being lovers. It was beautiful. I wasn’t raped, traumatized nor shocked at what happened or at what was happening to me. I didn’t fight him off, I didn’t push him away. I didn’t look at him any differently. Nothing changed between us. I never put a label on it. I was too young.
Growing up, I categorically refused to label myself. Even to this day. The adults around me made me realize that I was gay.
When I was a teenager I had erections whenever I saw men in swimsuits. I remember my reaction the first time I saw a TV commercial and there was a guy wearing a red speedo, but prior to that, I remember always being fascinated by male nudity. I would sneak around to peek at naked men whenever I could. The male anatomy is the most beautiful thing in creation. I still believe so today. I remember being teased in school for being effeminate. So to this question there is no fixed answer as I have always been “gay.”
When exploring your sexuality, did you have anyone (family or friend) that you could ask or use as a resource?
No…I’m a self-taught, self-made individual (laughs). I was a resource for my friends. They came to me for advice especially when it came to sex and sexuality.
Does the gay social life in Jamaica help or hinder your involvement in the gay community?
No. I was determined to live. I especially loved cruising, despite the many risks and dangers. I couldn’t help it. At the time, I was a predator, I loved to hunt, I like to collect trophies (laughs). I took guys out on dates, I hung out with my friends and I went to parties. We learned that we had to be discrete about it. Keep it on the DL (down low) or under cover. It’s strange but I like being “out there.” I felt alive, I felt excited. In a way it was my form of passive resistance and rebellion.
When socializing with gay friends, what activities are especially enjoyable?
For me, nothing beats having great sex. Second, it’s the being together, sharing stories and laughing. The good times don’t last very long. I really enjoyed having my friends over to my house despite my mom’s strong disapproval. If not, I’d go to my friend’s houses. I miss having my friends.
Any special advice or thoughts to share with anyone who is thinking about “coming out” as gay?
This may sound harsh or blunt, but your sexuality is your own business. You don’t owe it to anyone to come out. Come out only if it frees you from pain and suffering. I’ve only officially come out to my mom: it became necessary. I didn’t come out to my brothers and sisters, they already knew or they simply figured it out. I haven’t come out to my dad, I don’t see the need. He left when I was ten years old, now I’m almost 45 and I don’t see how it matters.
Gay men deserve as much respect as anyone else on this planet. We shouldn’t be apologizing or giving thanks or getting down on our knees to any other human being. We all have the right to live our lives the way we choose. Coming out should never be forced or felt like a rite of passage. That’s nonsense! Being gay is neither a mistake nor a punishment that can be erased or prayed away.
Rohan’s gravatar here at ReNude Pride!
Rohan the Nubian-Ikigai on nudity:
Growing up, what were you taught about nudity and being seen naked around other people?
Well, to answer this question in all honesty it might be necessary for me to point outthat in my country “social nudity” does not exist. People don’t just get naked and go walking around outside in nature or hang out together for the fun of it. This concept is reserved for the North Americans and the Europeans; as such those foreign notions are usually seen with an evil eye.
On the other hand, nudity wasn’t a subject. Nudity is or let me say baring skin was not a taboo. We live on a hot tropical island, my city was built on a beach, Dance Hall and Carnival are a mainstay of our culture. Being poor meant you bathed outdoors or in a river and if you like the rain, it’s a great time to take a rain shower.
But ironically though, we are also very religious, so modesty and clothing meant you were closer to God. So a constant clash between Christian and non-Christian, all in good fun of course.
Once youth reach adolescence, they become very body-conscious and modest. Was this ever the case for you?
Absolutely! Even to this day, I am still very body conscious. But I am taking it in stride. I work out regularly to gain a bit more confidence and overcome that shyness.
Have you ever skinny-dipped (swim naked) with others?
No, which is sad because I lived near a river and a beach…and I’ve seen so many men skinny-dipping in the nearby river as a child growing up (laughter). I think I may be hydrophobic. I don’t really take to water that much. I never really liked swimming, and to make things worse, with my extreme shyness and body-consciousness, skinny-dipping was a definite no – no!
Any awkward or interesting experience being socially nude (naked in the company of others) that you’re comfortable to share with us?
I have a few experiences with being nude in public; the most hilarious was when my best friend – who is also straight (opposite gender loving) took me to a topless bar. It was so shocking for me to see a woman topless in public. I remember being so nervous that my hands kept trembling like a leaf. My friend ordered us some sodas. I couldn’t take my eyes off her breasts though (laughs). She served us our sodas, but I was too mesmerized to see that she had put the bottle right in front of me. As I reached for my drink, I ended up spilling it all over the bar counter. She was very sweet; she simply smiled while my friend laughed his head off!
Any advice for anyone considering social nudity for the first time?
Go ahead. There is a lot to gain. Remove the shackles that enslave and the chains that bind. If it feels weird or awkward at first, it’s normal. Living in a society where covering up is the mainstream; we rarely ever get to see ourselves and others for who we really are. Before joining a crowd, though, make sure you’re comfortable being naked with yourself first. Social nudity may be like jumping off the deep end of the pool.
Compare your body type to that of others; this allows you to see that all body types are natural and there isn’t one unique body type. My personal technique is to watch a lot of porn. I also enjoy watching porn. Porn allows me to see lots of naked people without running the risk of being called a pervert. Plus, porn shows men, of so many varying body types and what’s more they are so comfortable. And that’s the key. Being comfortable and being around other people who are also naked and comfortable. You want to be around as much positive energy as possible.
And finally don’t be too critical. Avoid judging others: you may be surprised at how quickly you stop judging yourself in the process!
Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai!
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One of the many amazing aspects of Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai is his candor and honesty – not to forget his willingness – in sharing his true self with others! Alex, my identical twin brother, and I had one another to rely on when we began to openly acknowledge our same gender love (gay) and our nudity. His solo acceptance of both who and what he really is isn’t just just brace and courageous but is also exemplary and inspiring!
In the words of Aaron, my spouse, “Fantastic job, Rohan! Congratulations on being you and proud of it! Welcome to our natural world!”
Taking into account the laughs that Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai shared with is in his interview, we’re all pleased to have him as an optimistic fellow bare practitioner! You’ve earned our admiration and respect, my friend! I am grateful for your participation in this interview on ReNude Pride!
It is a true honour for ReNude Pride and for myself to feature Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai here today. He’s a remarkable man and an awesome bare practitioner extraordinaire! We have to all make our distinct beginning in our own way and it is refreshing to see Rohan’s initiation into our community and culture in progress! Great job!
Rohan will visit here as a guest co-author on December 1, 2022, for World AIDS Day! Plan to join with us then!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Wednesday, November 30, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! November, 2022!”
The term “Friday Footnote” confuses some people. Please don’t be misled. I am not endorsing a “foot fetish” obsession – nor am I condemning one! A “footnote” is a brief notice or explanation for clarification. To enhance comprehension and understanding of the subject material. Our man above is ReNude Pride’s visual indication of a footnote.
The latest updates…!
In my posting earlier this month, September: New Beginnings, (click title to view) I presumed that everyone understood the correlation between January 1, and September 1. A “new beginning” isn’t really happening just because it is the start of another month and another calendar season. However, as early as we are into the current month, “new” has already enveloped us. The most obvious being the ascension of Charles III as the Head of Commonwealth on the death of his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Another event happened to me, personally, just this past week! A most welcome occurrence!
Friends reunited!
Role-model reunion:
Returning to my classroom after the Labor Day holiday (Monday, September 5), I was totally surprised and thrilled to receive a response from one of my oldest (acquaintance wise) blogging buddies with the accurate and current address of his blog! This lifted my spirits after the day off and made me excited about this long overdue reunion!
His new site is: Gaytekeeper’s Blog. Click on the title and visit the blog. He is very impressive and will keep you entertained, informed and current!
Addendum:
I appreciate everyone who corrected my connectivity link above. It was a typographical error on my part. I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience!
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Farewell, Summer, 2022!
Get-Away goodbye!
In the Northern Hemisphere, this approaching weekend is the final official one of the Summer of 2022. The season of fun, surf and sun will – within a few short days – disappear as autumn brings a chill into our lives.
Aaron and I are on the roadways away beginning today (early in the morning). This is our bidding farewell to the season and to the comfortable temperatures outside. We have no definitive destination for our weekend jaunt although an ocean and waves are always appealing!
This is our tribute to the summer of 2022 – our method of saying “thank you” and good-bye” as the season draws to a close. It was both fun and remarkable, a combination that unfortunately doesn’t happen to often recently.
I wish to everyone reading and/or visiting here the best for the weekend! Be careful and safe!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Monday, September 19, 2022, and the proposed topic is a brief tribute on the funeral and burial of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Last month, May, 2022, I published regarding the unlucky Friday the 13th myth. In keeping with the focus on June being the month of GLBTQ+ and Bare Pride, we’ll avoid the number 13 here and concentrate on the number three (3)! After all, today is the third (3) full day of Pride Month, 2022!
Fortunately, there is no numeral associated with pride. Our confidence in our community, our culture, our friends and ourselves happens whether we are alone – solo – or in a group of three, thirty or as many as three hundred. There exists no numerical threshold, imagined or real, that must be reached in order for the sensations of accomplishment, achievement, pride and success to be experienced.
Confidence in Ourselves
Self-confidence is an essential aspect of celebrating and remembering our community and our cultural pride. Our comfort in being who we are enables us to overcome any doubts or feelings of embarrassment, guilt, remorse or shame that others seek to impose upon us. In deflecting and ignoring the contempt of others we prove ourselves to be above and beyond intimidation and reproach!
A happy trio!
Happiness in Ourselves
Our smiles visibly demonstrate our contentment in being us: the who (same gender loving) and the what (bare; body and clothes freedom) nature of our lives. In accepting and acknowledging our specialty and uniqueness in this life and in this world, we show our confidence and our pride and help to prepare others for joining us without any fear or hesitation. Our camaraderie reminds others and ourselves that we are not alone.
Forward looking threesome!
Unity Among Ourselves
Despite our numerous concerns, differences, favourites, issues and values, we, as the bare practitioner community and culture stand together – united – in hopeful anticipation of our future. We embrace, rally and support the colours, images representation and spirit of the Progress rainbow flag. We go forth towards our common goals of equality, justice, tolerance and unity for all of us no matter who we love.
Progress rainbow banner!
Our strength is founded on the respect and trust that we share with one another. Our confidence and pride is the combines legacy of our past, the unity of our present and the anticipation of our future!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry proudly planned for here is Monday, June 6, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Sunshine Pride!”
The gentlemen above attempt some genital modesty with the traditional rainbow flag that for many years represented GLBTQ+ pride!
The colors and the symbolism of the traditional rainbow flag. Many complaints were received because the diversity of the GLBTQ+ community wasn’t reflected.
Traditionalrainbow flag with two gay men emblems!
The customary “header” for my Pride month post entry. On the rainbow flag he’s holding are emblems representing two gay men together. I used this image for my initial A Guy Without Boxers site as well as here on ReNude Pride.
Daymin Voss (left) kisses Beaux Banks.
Same gender love (SGL) at the very best! Daymin Voss (left) passionately kissing his fellow SGL actor, Beaux Banks! A foreplay scene from their film: Vice!
Self-explanatory logo!
ReNude Pride observes GLBTQ+ pride month and bare pride month simultaneously. I did the same when publishing A Guy Without Boxers. The Stonewall Inn Riots happened on the night of June 28, 1969.
We can all follow adult SGL film legend Francois Sagat’s example and “strip off” our clothes for the entire month of June. Pride with absolutely nothing to hide!
A nocturnal dive!
While we’re all bare, we can take advantage and skinny-dip dive into the pool! Every effort earns a reward!
“Pride is the confidence, contentment, joy and satisfaction that we feel being the real and true person that we are!” ~ Roger Peterson-Poladopoulos ~ June 1, 2022
Compiling pride!
Our confidence and pride extends to ourselves, our community and all of humanity. We are not limited in what we attempt to accomplish. Working together, we achieve our goals!
Our pride: our Progress flag!
Our pride commemorates the challenges we have overcome and the lessons we have learned. It includes the pain we have felt, the lives we have lost and the grief that we have mourned. Our successes and triumphs are celebrated and cherished.
Our pride continues forward! The Progress flag (image above) is our new banner that incorporates our collective past and our hope for the future. It retains a part of our rainbow heritage and elements of our progression into acceptance, diversity, equality, inclusion and respect!
Happy nakedness and pride to everyone, every day of the entire year!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry planned for here is for Friday, June 3, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “World Naked Bike Ride!”
Whether we live in the Northern Hemisphere or in the Southern Hemisphere, it makes no difference. The summer season is almost always known as the time for play – especially if the “players” are comfortable in being bare! If we’re having fun, why do we need to concern ourselves with clothing? One less issue to contend with!
Friday Footnote: Summer, 2022, doesn’t officially start until June 21, of this year – one month from today. This Friday Footnote for today’s entry here on ReNude Pride is a subtle reminder of the excitement and the fascination of of planning (in advance) of a true adventure: a season of being a dutiful and devout bare practitioner! Shift into the gear of determination and set the course for action, laughter and a multitude of memories. Don’t forget your camera and sunscreen!
Strip 2 B 2gether!
Minus the shorts and the swimsuit, there’s no longer any need to wonder what we’ll wear for the remainder of the season. Bare is always best and fair for everyone out there! Nudity is complete equality for all players – so make plans to remove all those burdensome garments and get busy enjoying life as it should be: all natural!
Bare antics!
Most of us suffer through the cold weather longing for the time to frolic and to be happy. True, many strip the moment they arrive home from a day at work. But how much fun is achieved solo? Shouldn’t our joy be shared with others? Summer offers us a chance not only to bare our bodies but also to build friendships and relationships with those around us!
Nakedness = happiness!
“Nudity is basic and elemental. It is honest, open and real. Clothing conceals and deceives. It is generated and intentional falsehood. No explanation required!” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~
Frolicking naturally enables the vast majority of us to increase our leisure time dramatically. We don’t have to bother with getting dressed as our attire is our natural skin. We seriously reduce the amount of time needed to launder our clothing as our wardrobe needs are drastically eliminated. More time for friends and fun, which increases our instances of self-worth and happiness. A winning combination for all involved!
Fun 2gether!
So cast aside the long faces and anticipate a season of good cheer! Plan now to strip for the summer and relish the delight of freedom through nakedness during this season of the year!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Monday, May 23, 2022, and the proposed topic is “Victoria Day!”
This is the final posting of the April Appeal series for this year here on ReNude Pride. The sub-title is “fantasy” but perhaps a sub-title of “initiation” is more appropriate. The two men featured in the above image are our bare practitioner “hosts” for this ritual – the welcoming of one of our textile “converts” into the world of living in the freedom of being a bare practitioner!
My friend, Jay’s partner, Raheem, volunteered to help me with today’s April Appeal installation. I am grateful for his efforts and encourage him to pursue maintaining his own blog! Some of you may remember assistance on my post “BRAT!”(click the title to link).
Unofficial and unstructured, as far as Raheem and I can determine, there are absolutely no guidelines or mandate for actually conducting an initiation ceremony into the bare practitioner community. The fantasy Order of Bare Practitioners (OBP) is an imaginary dream of both Raheem and myself (although it does have a noble connotation)! Nakedness appreciates companionship – that’s why we have “social nudity” – but an official ritual for membership? Removal of clothing is the sole qualification as per our knowledge.
Initiating the textile as a bare practitioner #1!
Initiation Into the Bare Practitioner World!
The two bare practitioner men are stripping the clothes off of a man they are preparing to “induct” into the bare practitioner culture. Our “host’s” duties are to remove the covering (clothing) from those seeking membership into OBP and to present them to all members present, completely bare!
“There is no reason to conceal and hide. Complete nudity is cause for joy and pride!” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~ April 25, 2022
Bare Practitioner Initiation Ritual:
Initiating the textile as a bare practitioner #2!
All of the bare practitioners (the regular membership) viewing the induction ritual recall their own entrance into the OBP (the mythical society). The initiates, being totally clothed, eagerly anticipate their moment of freedom from being burdened with clothes! That’s the reason all the bare practitioners engage their nudity prior to the beginning of the ceremony!
There is most definitely no humiliation or shame in being publicly stripped of one’s textile deceit! Everyone knows that body and clothes freedom is accompanied with pride!
Initiating the textile as a bare practitioner #3!
As the discomfort of the garments are removed, the initiate is allowed to share with the membership his eagerness and willingness to become one with them in enjoying living naturally! The regular bare practitioner membership is encouraged to ask questions of those who are seeking to join us as members. This exchange helps to open the friendship between the regular members and those hoping to become affiliated with our camaraderie!
Initiating the textile as a bare practitioner #4!
Each prospective recruit is invited to come forward fully clothed and to be publicly and ritually removed of his artificial concealment. The identical process is repeated for each and every one. This allows all of us to witness our newest as they evolve from being textile to their new status as completely “bare with pride!”
Initiating the textile as a bare practitioner #5!
This evolution and induction process empowers us all as members of the Order of Bare Practitioners. We are reminded of our own membership assimilation as well as the unity that we all share with one another. It enables us to appreciate and understand that even though we may be a minority population, we are most definitely not alone in our same gender love nor in our pride in our nakedness. Together, we make a committed team!
Bare practitioner unity!
Embracing one another reinforces our dedication to our ideals of same gender love and of body and clothes freedom. We respect the responsibility of each and every one to determine the path they will follow throughout their life. Our embrace, together, reaffirms this principle!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: Please remember that this particular post is a pure fantasy publication.
The next post entry for here is planned for Saturday, April 30, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! April, 2022!”
The date was Wednesday, March 16, of this year. At university, a colleague brought in a newspaper from where I lived with my, the city of Richmond, Virginia. He entered my office without knocking and opened the paper and laid it across my desk. I turned from my computer screen and glanced at where he pointed with his finger. A memorial obituary for an acquaintance of mine – Rodney Lofton. He had died from complications with lung cancer on Monday, March 14, in Phoenix, Arizona.
He was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in November, 2021. He was pronounced with HIV in 1993. A Richmond, Virginia, native, he returned to the city of his birth after living in New York City for several years. It was while living in New York City that he learned of his HIV status. He immediately became active in HIV+ awareness, education and services not only in Richmond but in Washington, D.C., as well.
Rodney worked to revive and then became a member of the City of Richmond Human Rights Commission. He served two terms in that position.
Rodney served on various boards and commissions nationally and throughout the states. His service in the City of Richmond, Virginia, and for the Commonwealth of Virginia (the focus here for this post), was both beneficial and profound. He was the very first African-American to serve as a senior staff person at the community GLBTQ+ advocacy group, Diversity Richmond. In this capacity he was vice-president and then deputy director. He was instrumental in opening doors previously closed to persons of colour in the former capital city of the old Confederate States.
In his time, he created the Black and Bold Awards to honour the contributions that Black GLBTQ+ persons made to the City of Richmond and to the Commonwealth of Virginia. Later, he created a similar award programme for the Latino community.
Rodney Lofton posing beside his portrait at Diversity Richmond!
In 2015, Rodney was the recipient of the OUTStanding Virginia award presented by Equality Virginia to a person who dutifully positively represented the community in the public eye.
Among his numerous volunteer efforts, he also actively participated in the Red Cross HIV/AIDS prevention education programmes. I will deliver more on this topic in the second part of today’s post here.
Rodney Lofton was the author of two books. The first book entitled The Day I Stopped Being Pretty: A Memoir was published on October 16, 2007. This memoir chronicles his life journey from childhood to adulthood in honest and riveting detail. He relates his bad times, good times and all the moments in between. He bares his soul and affords us the perspective of a gay Black male recognizing his uniqueness in the unfolding world of the “New South.”
Rodney Lofton’s first book.
His second novel was published two years later on June 30, 2009. His second book entitled No More Tomorrows: Two Lives, Two Stories, One Love. Lofton’s second book is a novel relaying the bromance and drama of two contemporary same gender loving men and their relationship. Both titles were nominated the year of publication for a Lambda Literary Award.
Rodney Lofton’s second book!
The current City of Richmond City Council unanimously passed a Statement of Tribute in early March, 2022. It was signed by Mayor Stoney and delivered to Rodney in Phoenix, Arizona, shortly before he died. In the statement, City Council noted: “Rodney served for many years as a local and national GLBTQ+ leader and compassionate voice.”
Rodney Lamont Lofton is survived by his husband, Faron Niles.
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A Personal Thought on Rodney Lofton:
As teenagers, my identical twin brother, Alex, and myself – once we understood our same gender attraction – would frequently visit the riverside park in our city, especially the “gay beach” area where we could “hang out” with our own kind. Twin and I liked the fact that we could be clothes free here while on summer vacation from our residential Deaf school. This was where we met Rodney. He and Twin became friends while Rodney and I remained acquaintances – we’d pass notes while together but that was the limit of our relationship.
Fast forward to the middle 1990’s. Due to the HIV/AIDS crisis, I became a very active volunteer in prevention education with my local chapter of the Red Cross. I worked primarily with teenagers and young adults in outreach efforts to raise knowledge and understanding among their peers. As a Deaf instructor-trainer in the Red Cross HIV/AIDS curriculum, I was frequently sought by the national organization and the various local chapters for advice and service.
I served as a co-chairman on the programme to create, develop and implement a focused curriculum for teens in HIV prevention strategies and techniques. This two-year project culminated with a four-day training conference involving 150 teenage training candidates and the project developers/educators. The name determined for the project was Teen Voice. This provided me the opportunity to renew my acquaintance with Rodney Lofton.
For the duration of the educational sessions, Rodney and I were room-mates at the facility used for the training. At nights after our sessions, we passed notes while naked in our shared room and smoking our cigarettes, expelling the smoke through our open window. Because of our note exchange, we kept the room lights on. At the reception at the end of our programme, one of our co-instructors commented privately that he enjoyed watching the two of us smoking nude in our room at night! We both shared laughter at our “exposure” at the Red Cross Teen Voice conference!
Over the nights and notes, we developed a casual friendship and an understanding of our roles within the Red Cross HIV/AIDS project. We also recalled days at the riverside park in Richmond hanging out nude and skinny-dipping in the river.
The Memorial Service
Memorial Service announcement!
I attended the above memorial service for Rodney. Twin wanted to attend but had a professional commitment that he needed to participate. There was no interpreter present so all I could do was observe the mourners present. It did me good to be there and offer my sentiments internally.
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A shared past and our shared nudity!
Rest in peace, Rodney Lofton!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next planned post entry here is for Monday, April 18, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “April Appeal: Nakations!”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 