Ten Lessons on being an Authentic Gay Man

Hello, Friends :)

The following ten lessons are from a wonderful book I recently read, "The Velvet Rage," by Alan Downs.  A dear college friend of mine, Joe Lupariello, loaned it to me when I saw in in LA this past May. I found the book to be extraordinarily powerful, and these lessons, from the last chapter were like icing on the cake; an unexpected bonus in an already-rich experience. Btw, these are each headings for much more in-depth writings on each ideal.

Happy Summer-

Bill

1. Don't let your sexual tastes be the filter for allowing people into your life.

2. Adopt a nonjudgemental stance as often as possible.

3. When you have a problem with someone, speak with them first (instead of everyone else).

4. It's never a bad idea to be completely honest about the facts.

5. Others are often put off by perfection.

6. Don't act on every emotion you feel.

7. Put off having sex until you feel comfortable that you really know him.

8. Actively practice accepting your body as it is right now.

9. Intentionally validate those you love, but never validate that which is not valid.

10. Whenever you encounter a relationship problem, first access your own responsibility before blaming someone else.