I was reading through the various blogs I follow, and a topic was broached that breaks down to the idea that those involved in "TTWD" have some obligation to help newbies. On it's face this seems like a fine, communal, utopian ideal. In practice it's just plain moronic in my opinion.
The fact is, we are speaking of the most intimate parts of ourselves when we speak of our desires, hopes, and beliefs. These are things I have discovered to be both highly personal and potentially extremely controversial with the power to do real and serious harm if they are used against you. That being the case, let me put forth my opinion that the first duty of any person is to their families, then themselves, and if there is anything left over that can be conveniently and safely offered then it is a choice whether or not to help others. You have no duty to another person to help them find themselves. Certainly not just because they claim to share an interest with you in some alternative lifestyle. It's wonderful to find like-minded people, but you have no obligation to trust them with your most private and personal thoughts and feelings. This goes for people that were friends prior to discovering their newly found interest as well, and in my opinion doubly so. A stranger may decide they aren't as enamored with a specific lifestyle as they expected to be and just leave, but a "Friend" will try to "Save" you from your "Mistake". So to those of you that feel pressured to share your experience one on one, just understand the risks. The consequences could harm you, harm your family(including your children) and destroy the relationship and life you've built. Don't allow some guilt trip to push you into a risky decision. Don't assume that because you would have valued and honored a mentor when you were coming up, that anyone you offer your knowledge to now will respect you for it. You are placing yourself at serious risk every time you extend that hand. Don't do it without thinking it through. You may well come to regret offering that kindness more than any other decision you ever make in life.
