Bridging the gap
Submitted by Ben on May 04 1999 at 08:22:08
In reply to Bridges Across the Divide Submitted by Heather on May 02 1999 at 22:38:19
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Heather - Having been involved in the internet BL community for about 3 years (a lifetime in Microsoft years :-) I can share my experiences discussing boylove with non BLs. I've found that BL groups, forums and communities pose a direct threat to other people. Everyone knows from experience and observation that there is power in numbers (NRA, ACLU, Gay/Lesbian rights activitists, etc) and that in numbers there is a community which will support virtually any point of view. Again and again people are terrified of the power that a community of...gasp....pedophiles could possess. On the other hand, individual human interaction with pedophiles usually brings on a whole different response. I have, dozens of times, befriended someone on IRC....usually just because they msg'ed me thinking that I was someone else. After all of the hello, how are you type of banter I explain to them that I am a celibate pedophile. To my surprise, most people, once they have met the individual human person are willing to discuss that person's orientation even if it is in direct conflict with everything that they have ever felt and known. One by one, a gentle explanation of what it means to be attracted to young boys but to not act on it, brings out a new understanding in virtually every person that I chat with. This has been my consistent observation over time. You are not alone. 
Ben |