I agree wholeheartedly with everything here. It's most refreshing to be in the midst of a group of like-minded folks who understand the difference between intimacy and anything smacking of sexuality or what is inappropriate for the occasion. It's not something one should even have to think about but there are men who constantly show less affection for fear of any outward affectionate gesture being interpreted as something else. That's sad.For me, I think it is environmental. I have met men my age who were raised in well educated homes, with liberal (not morally bankrupt) parents who never placed negative associations with a male/male hug. For these men it was just what it was, a hug. I always know when I'm around broad minded individuals like this because the energy they give off to those around them is balanced and comforting.
It's always a pleasure to meet people who are a product of this type of environment, they tend to bring out the natural course of human behavior in everyone. Generous, giving and no hang up's when it comes to a simple hug from the same sex.
But yes, balanced and comforting indeed.
Watching them interact with each other is a truly wonderful experience. The warm, affection, and love is all there without the fear and worry of what other people think. Quite liberating to witness and partake in. :smile:I agree with EBlend and others that this is purely environmental and cultural, not "natural" or "the way things should be." So I'm trying to become more like Lex, DC, and others who can express affection for other people in public without fear.
My partner is a little more hesitant than I am in displaying friendly affection in public but that's due to his sometimes debilitating shyness, not a lack of warmth. The more time he spends with me in public, the less shy he is around others.
Great minds think alike. :redface::biggrin1:NCbear (who really appreciates MB's further exploration of this idea, and who feels enormously complimented by Her Blissfulness's quoting him :smile::wink