We all have in our heads images and expectations o

We all have in our heads images and expectations of what we are, what we want, where we're going in our lives and so on.  We view ourselves reflected in magical mirrors that often don't reflect truly or  have even a nodding acquaintance with mainstream views of us.  What amazes me is that even knowing those mirrors can be liars, we also use them to see out into the world around us, squinting through the places in the corners where the silver backing has rubbed off.  "Reality based" is a wonderful if mostly unattainable goal.  It's no wonder finding people to connect with is such a chore. So let me make it easier, if I can.Me: I like common.  Common sense, common decency and common courtesy.  I work hard and probably will all my life.  Nothing special.  No $20,000 dungeon. No extra closet for the fabulous fetish wardrobe. No breathtaking "life of the rich and famous", and damned little drama. I like it that way.I'm intensely curious about everything and anything. I love learning. I'm a voracious reader and I don't take much for granted. When I'm making things or growing things, I'm probably at my happiest. I'm witty, engaging and have great generosity of spirit.  I care passionately about the world and the things (including people) in it. I love good people, good coffee, good food, good beer and laughter.  A lot of laughter.  Little things like integrity, compassion, and honesty are important to me. As far as the physical stuff goes, there's a picture here.  It's me, no makeup, no careful coiffing, no clever lighting or softening lenses.  I'm shorter than the tree and narrower than the bench.You:  Have a pulse.  Have respect for yourself and others. Realize that life is inherently ridiculous and nobody gets out alive.  Be curious about and involved in the world around you.  Be wise enough to know that your personal mirror is flawed and be brave enough to use it as a tool anyway.  Get it right as often as you can and be willing to say you're sorry when you don't. Value some of the same things I listed above.  They're not little things in the grand scheme of the world.Generalities:  You will note that I didn't list a lot of kink things here.  There's a reason for that:  if you really want to know, you'll have to talk to me.  Yep,  you have to be my friend and probably a darned good one before I'd be willing to talk to you about anything as intensely intimate as kink.  I will say that I'm as real as it gets in that area, and I can and will produce references from both dominants and submissives if they're needed. I occasionally chat via IRC, so if you have some time to spare, look me up and say hello.   Otherwise, feel free to drop me a note here and I'll get back to you.Who knows? Maybe you're someone with whom I'd share the Sunday crossword.