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!”
In the USA, the last Monday of the month of May, annually, is a movable holiday in tribute to all those who have died in the defence of this country. Many others recognize this as Remembrance Day or as Armistice Day held on the anniversary of the cease fire ending the Great War (World War I). This is a federal holiday throughout all 50 states.
During this holiday, the USA flag is raised to half-post (for mourning) from sunrise until noon. At that hour, the flag is then raised to full-post for the remainder of the day.
In this country, this Memorial Day holiday is seen by many as the unofficial beginning of the summer season!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, May 31, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! May, 2022!”
This fun-seeking bare practitioner may be under an umbrella but he is being both proactive and safe in wearing sunglasses while outside – no matter what the season of the year. Too many people forego the preventative advantage of sunglasses. A pair with treatment seriously reduces the amount of UV radiation that exists in sunlight – no difference if it is autumn, winter, spring or summer.
This precaution protects the eyes and helps eliminate the radiation damage and other problems. Plus, you feel better from enjoying your time in the sun without the burden of clothing! Who could ask for anything more?
As the end of this month of May, 2022, approaches, our bare practitioner friend in sunglasses is taking advantage of the time to contemplate the upcoming pride month (June, 2022). His reflections include anticipation of the events honouring the celebration as well as the ramifications within our community and culture those activities may bring.
Is he thirsty or is it a pose for play?
Here at ReNude Pride, we’re trying a different perspective for our pride month observations. The focus is a continual series of postings accentuating aspects of confidence within ourselves along with our community and culture. Hopefully, this feature will enlighten all of us to further explore our world and all that it entails.
Our man truly enjoys posing for selfie images of himself. In both pictures, the scenery reflected in the lenses of his sunglasses reflects the colourful umbrellas of his neighbors on the nude beach!
Two essential items to remember: sunglasses and sunscreen. Water? Well, raise the list to three!
Everyone have a safe and successful weekend! Take care and stay bare!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Monday, May 30, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “USA: Memorial Day!”
Canada’s current Queen Elizabeth II (left) and Queen Victoria (right)!
In French, an equal language in Canada, the name for this holiday is: Fete de la Reine (Celebration of the Queen)! In all of Canada, this is a public holiday that is observed on the last Monday preceding May 25, annually. Initially in honour of Queen Victoria’s actual birthday (May 24), it is now a tribute to the first monarch of a confederated Canada as well as the official founding of Canada’s sovereignty. This holiday has occurred in Canada since at least 1845, which predates the creation of the confederation.
In addition to giving historical homage to the Queen who granted the Royal Assent (signature) to the British North America Act: the very first step in the inevitable evolution of the British Empire into the Commonwealth of which the current Queen Elizabeth II officially heads.
Posing for Canada!
For a majority of Canadians, Victoria Day serves as the unofficial commencement of the summer season – a long weekend to welcome the return of warmer weather!
Queen Victoria’s Enigma:
Oceanic skinny-dipper!
My spouse, Aaron, is Canadian by birth. His paternal ancestors migrated there through the underground railway before the U.S. Civil War ended the practice of slavery. At his determined insistence, I am offering this thought.
As a nude enthusiast – and advocate – one of the greatest ironies of Queen Victoria’s reign has always been: Did Her Majesty ever skinny-dip (swim naked)? Victoria ascended to the throne in 1837. Prior to inheriting the crown, everyone swam naked. Swim suits didn’t exist before they were commercially designed and produced in the 1850’s. The genders were segregated (if necessary) and people splashed about aquatically naturally (clothes free).
Stereotypically, H. M. Queen Victoria is always considered a very stoic and solemn prude. In reality, was the lady as she is often perceived?
Happy Victoria Day!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Friday, May 27, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Sunglasses: Sunglamour Glory!”
It is the month of May and for those of us living in the Northern Hemisphere, our Summer is rapidly approaching. In order to help remind everyone of the realities of living as a bare practitioner, the message is: we all need to act for protection of our skin! There is enough potential for disaster in our lives already. Failure to act to protect ourselves from over-exposure to the sun is a risky procedure that none of us need to make. Our health is fragile as it is!
Annually, usually during the month of May, I post a summation of the steps we should follow in protecting our skin from the sun. We enjoy our body and clothes freedom, a simple notation of the process to ensure continued fun and pleasure during the summer months is an effort towards the health and safety of us all. To all of our bare practitioners residing in the Southern Hemisphere, earmark this post in preparation when “fun-in-the-sun” season returns to you!
In our eagerness to get outside and frolic in the fresh air and warm sun, many of us forget one of the basic rules of outdoor health: we all need to cover up (protect) our skin before we uncover any part of or all of our body. This cover up entails the use of an appropriate sunscreen applied correctly, adequately (sufficient quantity) and, when necessary, reapplied diligently. Using sunscreen allows most of us to make the most of whatever our sunlight plans may offer. The purpose of sunscreen is to protect ourselves from sunburn (or worse).
Sunscreen instruction review!
It is strongly recommended that bare practitioners and naturists/nudists earmark this post for the duration of the season. In doing so, it is easily available for reference should the need arise. Our health is a vital concern for each one. Please protect yourself and others around you!
Question and Answer Format:
The “Question and Answer” (Q&A) style has been the format for this post entry here since I began publishing in 2017. Those seeking information appreciate the brevity and the focused subject of each inquiry. This type pf presentation encourages additional research if more information is needed.
New this year is an Addendum: Update section featured as a summary for this post entry.
Sunburn on his back!
What is sunburn?
Sunburn is caused by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation and not heat. It is important to remember that skin can burn even on overcast or cloudy days, cold winter days and while under shade (shelter from direct sunlight). Sunburn damages or destroys the skin, which controls the amount of heat our body retains or releases, holds in fluids (hydration) and protects us from infections.
Reactions to sunburn range from mild irritation to serious pain. Sunburn may cause fevers and nausea (depending on the severity of the burn) and makes the dead skin peel away. Sunburn may lead to serious health complications later in life.
The information below is very general and is offered as a guide to use in selecting the type of sunscreen that is best for personal protection. Keep in mind that every individual is just that: an individual – a unique person. What is applicable for one may or may not be the same for another. When in doubt, consult a health practitioner. It is better to ask now than to be sorry later!
Applying sunscreen!
What is sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a chemical that, to a certain degree, prevents UV radiation from reaching the skin. While there is no product that totally eliminates UV radiation damage, many variations, when used properly, can and do protect the skin adequately.
What should I look for in a sunscreen?
Regardless of where the sun activity is taking place: backyard, ball playing field, park or beach, the product should contain two elements for effective protection. Always look for a “broad spectrum” sunscreen that contains chemicals that block both UV-A and UV-B radiation from penetrating the skin surface.
While no product is completely waterproof, select a “water-resistant” type that is designed for long-lasting wear, especially if swimming or sweating. Choose a variation that is both easy to apply and feels good on the skin. There are numerous commercial brands available: creams, lotions, moisturizers, gels, sprays and solid stick types.
Sunbathing!
What is SPF?
The initials SPF refer to “sun protection factor.” This is the measure of the effectiveness of the sunscreen in absorbing UV-B radiation. If someone sunburns after about 10 minutes of sun exposure, using a product of SPF15 extends the amount of time before sunburn occurs to 150 minutes or two-and-a-half hours. After this time, it should be reapplied to continue protection.
In terms of percentages, a product of SPF15 blocks 93% of the UV-B sun rays. One of SPF30 blocks 97% of radiation and one of SPF50 blocks 99%. The difference in protection may not justify the added expense of higher SPF sunscreens.
What is the best sunscreen for me?
This depends on many factors, including age, skin type, activity, time of day, location (proximity to the Equator) and the UV index. For most skin types, a sunscreen with a minimum SPF15 is recommended. Persons with fair or lighter skin tones – of all races and ethnicities – and low sun tolerance (burn easily) should use a SPF30. For minimal sun exposure, 90 minutes or less, a moisturizer cream may suffice (with correct SPF level). For extended periods of sun exposure and higher activity engagement, use a longer-lasting product such as a cream, gel or lotion. Spray (aerosol or pump) are beneficial for hairy parts of the body, including the arms and armpits, back, chest, legs and the pubic region. If a person is acne-prone, choose sunscreens that are oil-free or non-carnodegenic.
For individuals with sensitive skin, the chemicals in some sunscreens may cause irritation. Use a product that contains only physical blockers (zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide). A physical blocker does not penetrate the skin layers as do chemicals. Physical blockers stay on the skin surface to provide protection.
Reading application instructions!
What is the best way to use sunscreen?
If you’ve used sunscreen before and burned, it was either applied incorrectly or the wrong SPF. For sunscreen to be effective, it must be in sufficient quantity, applied correctly and thoroughly, used prior to sun exposure and reapplied often. Remember the lips: use a lip balm with a minimum SPF15!
How much?
One ounce (a full shot glass) per adult body per application (minimally). Apply liberally all over the body, including behind the ears and on the edges of the ear and ear lobes.
When to apply?
At least 30 minutes before going out into the sun. Reapply 15 minutes later to ensure that you didn’t miss any part of your body. Once in sunlight, reapply every couple of hours, especially if swimming, perspiring or towel drying.
Who should use sunscreen?
Everyone needs skin protection from the rays of the sun. All races and ethnicities are susceptible to sunburn. Men with darker skin complexions may have a higher tolerance for sun exposure but at some point, they too will experience sunburn. Bear (and bare) in mind that skin damage and serious complications later are a result of the failure to protect the skin.
Rubbing sunscreen lotion into his skin!
What does the expiration date mean?
Sunscreen usually remains stable and effective for a period of three (3) years. After the expiration date, the contents will begin to decompose and will not offer the intended protection. Always check the expiration date before application. Discard any product that is past the expiration date.
For the bare practitioner/naturist/nudist:
Apply sunscreen to the entire body. This includes the anal area, armpits, penis, testicles (both front and back). Follow the reapplication guidelines every couple of hours. Body areas that may not receive direct sunlight absorb UV-A and UV-B radiation indirectly.
Manscaping (body hair removal), no matter the method used, creates sensitive areas on the skin surface. First, apply a gentle body lotion, wait fifteen (15) minutes and then cover with sunscreen – completely.
Summer is a natural season for outdoor freedom and a variety of nudecentric outside activities: aquatics, athletics, barbecues and cookouts, events, festivals and countless socials. It is also the time for quiet solitude such as gardening, hiking, reading a book or a casual stroll down a nature trail. No matter how we choose to spend our leisure time, proper prevention against sunburn ensures all of us freedom from concerns over sun exposure. One less worry as we go about our business of having fun in the sun.
Sunglass protection!
Sunglasses!
A cautious word on sunglasses! It is important to remember sunglasses to prevent harmful UV radiation from damaging the eyes! Even on overcast days, radiation is still available. When purchasing sunglasses, a pair with UV filtering lenses is highly recommended.
Sunscreen application assistance!
Bare Notations: 2022:
If you are a “newbie” (recent arrival) to the bare practitioner world – welcome! If you are a veteran of the body and clothes freedom comity (community and/or culture) – you’re welcome here, too! A new sectional feature here on ReNude Pride’s annual guide to sunscreen protection for us all are these “Bare Notations.” These notations (reminders and/or suggestions) are offered in a nonjudgmental and nonthreatening way to help us all guard and protect the “skin we’re in!” Please feel free to offer your own ideas in the comments area below and remember to have fun and be safe in the sun!
Tan-line: in order to remove all evidence of swimsuit (or other clothing) wearing, generously apply sunscreen all over your entire body – not just the tan-line area. Too many times people only cover the tan-line evidence and neglect the rest of their body. For the best protection, use sunscreen; faithfully and religiously!
Sunglasses: (once again, another subtle reminder) the use of sunglasses is essential in protecting visual health. The shaded lenses guard our eyes from the UV radiation emitted from the sun’s rays. Carefully select a pair that’s comfortable, treated with UV filtration and sturdy. Fresh slices of cucumber may be calming and fine for soothing the eyelids after sun exposure, but they don’t protect against UV damages!
Genitalia: (buttocks and crevice, penis, testicles) are sensitive parts of the body that are usually the least exposed to any sunlight. Carefully and completely cover with sunscreen – and a second thorough application is strongly recommended before sun exposure happens. This ensures full coverage has occurred. Remember the underside of the penis and the backside of testicles. UV radiation is not merely contained to sunlight! Don’t forget the crevice area between the left and right buttock!
Armpits: (underarms) are sensitive parts of the body that are usually a secondary site of minimal sunlight exposure. Armpit hair (underarm fur) – no matter how profuse or sparse – does not eliminate UV penetration. Apply sunscreen the same as you would other areas of the skin. Due to heavy perspiration in the underarms and the human tendency to wipe away heavy amounts of moisture, armpits/underarms may require additional monitoring.
Have a fun and safe summer!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry planned for here is Friday, May 20, 2022, and the proposed topic is “Summer Plans!”
Today is May 13, 2022. There is really no special significance placed on this day except for one major detail: today is Friday, May 13, 2022. The day of the week is the factor that makes a big difference. In the human mind, Friday, the 13th of any month is a date seriously lacking in any good fortune. Friday, the 13th is stereotyped as a most unlucky date!
The origins of this misconception in the early days of the Christian era were based on the belief that Jesus had twelve major followers (apostles). Somehow, an extra one subtly integrated the apostolic dozen thus creating the ideal of the unlucky 13th. Of course, this reasoning is built on the presumption that all of the world is Christian, which we know is not true.
In some bizarre intrigue, Satan (devil, evil) had penetrated the “holy divine dozen.” In this assault on Christianity, the number thirteen (13) earned it’s unlucky classification. Blame it all on Satan!
Despair!
Another theory as to the origins of the unlucky Friday the 13th exists and persists. This idea is supported by historical evidence that does offer us credibility although Satan is associated with this version of the unlucky 13th story also. For all of his rumoured might and power, that poor devil seems unable to lose his notoriety over the unlucky Friday the 13th legacy.
The next tale of this unlucky 13th saga is less biblical and more historical in content. It involves the Roman Catholic Church, a king of France, the Crusade, the Knights Templar, deceit, envy, greed, jealousy, history, myth, fact and fiction. Both a pope and Satan have roles to play in this gruesome epic; but, unfortunately, I am unable to serve popcorn as I relay all the tale to you.
Personal observation: for some unknown reason, Christianity, Satan and the “unlucky 13th” appear intimately involved in this legacy of misfortune.
Religious supplication!
The prelude to this segment of the unlucky 13th woe, the Crusades have already taken place. Christian armies, of which the Templar Knights were an allied force, had occupied the biblical lands and then been forced to retreat from them. Palestine was once again under complete Islamic domination. The Templar Knights had relocated themselves back into the safety of Europe and turned their attention from pilgrim protection in the Holy Land to banking and land management enterprises. The order was extremely wealthy.
Early morning, Friday, October 13, 1307, King Philip IV of France ordered the arrest of all the Knights Templar living in France. The king owed immense amounts of money to the Knights and had no way to pay off his debts. He believed that by arresting the order, he could confiscate their wealth and become debt-free. The highest ranking members of the monastic order were locked in prison, including Grand Master Jacques de Molay, and the torturing began. Incarcerated and under torture, the Templars were viciously slandered as “homosexuals” (same gender loving) and who inducted recruits to their order while they all were naked together after spitting on the holy cross.
Pope Clement V was horrified when he was informed of the Templar rumours and of their massive arrests. He’d been elected pope almost solely because of the French king’s influence and support and he feared the Templar Knights power. However, as the number of confessing Templars increased due to the torture Philip was inflicting on them, Clement issued a papal bull (law) ordering the arrest of all Templars throughout Europe due to blasphemy and heresy.
Arresting the Templar Knights!
Within a few days of torture, numerous Templars confessed to their alleged sins. Within weeks of their confession, most of the knights recanted their confessions and were put to death. This led Pope Clement V to terminate the inquisitions into their sins and to dissolve the courts. However, the papal action did not deter King Philip IV as he was busy dealing with the Templar fortunes he was now accumulating.
In 1310, two years after Pope Clement V had the inquisition ended, King Philip IV had Grand Master Jacques de Molay and the remaining leaders of the Knights Templar burned at the stake. The Friday the 13th fallacy was now officially over!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Monday, May 16, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Act-For-Skin!”
A combination of two fun-filled words that afford us with desires and dreams and a variety of memories. In the English language, naked is joined with the word vacation and the result is: nakation! A bare practitioner’s imaginative excursion into paradise! There is no established timeline; a nakation can be one day in duration, one week or an entire month. The nakationer (nude enthusiast on vacation) makes the decisions!
The choices are unlimited and can be as complex or as simple as the amount of free time and the financial resources permit. Uncertain of what’s available? Online is accessible to offer suggestions that satisfy most needs and requirements. Acquaintances and friends can make recommendations and give advice on what to do and what to avoid. Careful thinking and common sense are also valuable tools!
“Man designs fashions. Man makes clothes. Man makes mistakes! The measure of a man isn’t based on the clothes he wears. The true measure of a man is determined bythe clothes he is not wearing. Bare is the perfection of the human body without the mistakes.” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~
Nakation relaxation!
For someone who is a newcomer to the body and clothes freedom life, the prospect may seem overpowering. Do not despair! Even with a severely limited financial status, a basic nakation can involve little more than selecting a relatively secluded location, packing food and water (or other beverage) and getting outside to spend a free afternoon in nature. Being natural in nature doesn’t necessarily require time consuming planning and preparation. Reading material (to occupy your time mentally) and ample sunscreen are strongly encouraged for everyone (no matter their ethnicity or race)!
A convenient clothing optional resort involves both money and reservations – especially during the late Spring, Summer and early Autumn times of the year. When making inquiries at the facility, always ask for any policies or restrictions specific to that particular resort. Some destinations actually prohibit same gender loving relationships from even being on the property. It is always a good idea to ask about the clothing optional status of the on-site dining room/restaurant. There are numerous clothing optional establishments that cater especially to the bare practitioner community. At these locations, a person’s sexual identity is rarely a concern or issue.
Nakation comfort: no need to “dress to impress!”
“Bare practitioners are natural inspirations!” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~ January 6, 2022
A recent trend that is increasing in popularity are clothing/textile restrictive resorts. These places severely limit the areas and times that clothing may be worn. Some of the more stringent facilities mandate that clothing must be removed in the parking area before entry into the actual property. Be advised to question the specifics regarding these regulations. There is no need to be textile if it isn’t necessary!
Nakation together!
GLBTQ+ Friendly:
As discussed in last Monday’s April Appeal: Social Nudity (click link for connection), there is an ever-growing number of locations and resorts promoting (advertising, marketing) themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (GLBTQ+) accepting, friendly and welcoming. This attention is partly the result of discrimination endured by bare practitioners in the past and partly the result of an increasing number of bare practitioners specifically seeking such accommodations. The end result is a “win-win” situation for both the same gender loving (SGL) vacationers and the commercial establishments.
When visiting a GLBTQ+ friendly facility we don’t need to be as concerned and discreet about our status. However, as each property has different management and procedures, it is highly advised that guests inquire regarding protocols and meal-time dressing codes. Awareness and knowledge are allies in comfort and relaxation!
Cautionary note:
Regardless of the best intentions and precautions of destination management, facilities that publicly announce their GLBTQ+ acceptance sometimes attract the undesirable. There are some who stereotype our community as particularly vulnerable and weak. These individuals may not be guests on the property but they possibly monitor the entrance and exit of the establishment. It is recommended to take note of the surroundings and constantly practice vigilance.
Sunbathing!
Supplies:
Whether on nakation alone, as a couple or with companions, there are two essentials necessary: condoms and sunscreen. Keep in mind the cost of these items are usually higher at the destination rather than a local shop or store near where you reside. Condoms reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A reminder to all that condoms are strongly urged for everyone involved in PrEP.
Sunscreen generally has a shelf life of at least two years. Check the container for the expiration date before departure! Sunburn on the first day of nakation can ruin the remainder of your “play-time.” Better to be safe than sorry!
Sunglasses? A good idea is to always carry an extra pair with you. Better to see than suffer from too much sunlight!
“Often, in jest or in ridicule, the textile ask of bare practitioners, ‘How’s it hanging?’ Perhaps we should respond with an inquiry of our own: ‘How does it feel, to always hide and conceal?'” ~ Roger Peterson-Poladopoulos ~ April 18, 2022
Weather Suggestions:
Perfect weather conditions for a nakation cannot be guaranteed. A suggestion is to carry along a few tools to reduce boredom risks in the event storms appear. A deck of playing cards isn’t bulky and easily fits inside an empty shoe. Another idea is a small (3 x 5 inch or 7.62 x 12.7 cm) memo notebook and a couple of pencils or pens. These can be used for a game of charades, etc. These items aren’t cumbersome nor expensive and offer unpleasant weather options.
A Gentle Reminder Notation:
As I have mentioned throughout this post entry, experiencing a nakation isn’t solely based on the destination and/or the location. The freedom, the joy and the relaxation are major aspects of the nakation opportunity. Equally important and satisfying is the enrichment of our clothes free lives. A successful nakation is the comfort enjoyed from nakedness as determined by the nakationer!
Home alone!
A nakation can be pleasurable and relaxing alone at home. It doesn’t have to involve extensive travel or endless nightmares. Whatever suits the individual is best!
Take care and stay bare!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, April 22, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Holy Easter/Martyr’s Day!”
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!”
The e-mail announcement was sent the day after Spring arrived. All of the recipients were naturally ecstatic over the return of the warming season so the timing of the notification made perfect sense. Keep the “good news” separate from the welcoming of springtime!
The good news? The reviving (return to life) of our little “partner’s club” of bare practitioners appropriately named the BP’s (bare practitioners). In all honesty, we aren’t legally nor officially named anything. We simply refer to ourselves as the BP’s.
Bare practitioners #2
My identical twin, Alex, our first cousin (9 years younger) Michael and I were the initial members of the BP’s along with whoever we were dating at the time. This was before marriage equality and the calm, progressive time-frame of Mr. Obama’s presidency.
Fast forward to the present and add my spouse, Aaron, to the BP’s members listing plus Dante` (Alex’s current mate), Ropati (Michael’s partner and soon-to-be spouse). Non-related now includes my friend, Jay (and his significant, Raheem) and Paul (Aaron’s older brother and his man, Sudhir). Our oldest brother, Nick, is an ex officio member; he’s same gender loving (SGL) but only a discretionary nudist. Somehow, Nick manages to survive being clothed most of the time!
Our BP’s theme!
We constitute the core-group of the BP’s. Others have affiliated over the years but have either ended a relationship, fallen “out-of-touch” (uncommunicative) or physically moved away from the area. To my knowledge, no one has become textile or married someone of the opposite gender!
The coronavirus COVID-19 epidemic caused a two-year hiatus from our joint adventures together. Travel restrictions and group gathering limitations forced us to simply adhere to public safety guidelines and exchange images of ourselves (no clothing allowed) instead of having several BP’s excursions during the course of a calendar year.
Onward to the revival!
In addition to announcing the resuscitation of the BP’s, the e-mail notice contained other information that was personally rewarding for me. Raheem (Jay’s significant other), volunteered to serve as our “BP-of-contact” for the upcoming future. Another “treat” to welcome the return of the warming time of the year!
I’ll again mention here of Raheem’s creativity. He’s the man who made the BRAT entitlement for my January 3, 2022, post entry here on ReNude Pride. His energy is hopefully contagious to us all!
The first BP’s excursion for this post-epidemic season is planned for the end of May. The replies to Raheem are promising which indicate a positive revival of both bare fun as well as BP’s excitement!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, April 11, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “April Appeal: Social Nudity!”
