Showing posts with label Relationships. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Relationships. Show all posts

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Illumenation! Halloween Edition





Halloween:  Come Out and Play with the Men of Illumenate for a scary good time!  Come to a place where young gay/bi Ghost and Goblins (ages 18-29) get together to meet new people, talk about sex, relationships, friendships, and much more.   

This edition of Illumenation is Halloween themed! We encourage you to come in your best Halloween gear (costumes) This Illumenation will also feature some fun games and Halloween themed goodness.  It's a great time to get all those burning questions answered and have a LOT of fun doing it! 

All you have to do is bring yourself and we will give you:   FREE FOOD, A TSHIRT, A MONSTER MASH-UP CD, EDUCATION, FUN & SO MUCH MORE! 

Sign up and get your questions answered Here

Monday, August 22, 2011

Illumenation


Come Out. Have Fun. Get Turned On.

September 14th, 2011 7-10pm

Illumenate

333 East Miller Drive

Bloomington, IN 47401

This is a fun and safe environment to make new friends and to discuss sex, relationships, friendships & a lot more! We will provide the education, fun, FREE FOOD, and a free T-shirt...you bring yourself!

Questions? Contact Patrick at pbattani@iuhealth.org or 812/3533276


Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Oh, Canada!

Greetings from the Great White North! I was just wondering why Americans dislike Canadians? What did we do wrong?

Dear Concerned Canadian,
Querido, who said Americans dislike our brothers to the north? I think it has to do with the revolution Papi.
It goes like this…I think (well if not we can always change Wikipedia right?):
Once upon a time, a fine Papi named United Kingdom met another papi named the Colonies. Like any tragic love story, these papis had a falling out. There was a big fight and a lot of Facebook drama. The Colonies were all passive-aggressive and posted something along the lines of “Fine, we will just be independent!” Well, the UK didn’t like that and said “Whateves, don’t let me catch you out or I will fight you.” Well you know what happened after that.
So you see papi it’s like when you break up with an ex and then have animosity for the person they are currently dating and vice versa. But what are you really “angry” at? Or are you’re feelings hurt? I think it’s time that we both sit down and really think about what the real emotions are. Identifying the real emotion will help you understand where they are coming from and help us resolve the issues you have with them.
It is very important that we respect each other; even when we are hurt. There is no reason to sling mud. I know that sometimes it can be hard to deal with the end of a relationship, but it always is for the best even if you don’t see that at the moment. So if you give us just a little time (like 200 years or so) to deal we can all be friends one day.
PS Could you please send some of those 1 girl 5 gays boys to visit?
I hope that helped.
Gracias Querido for Asking Argenta!

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Slippery Slope


Dear Argenta,
What is the best lube for anal sex?

Dear Slippery when Wet,
Querido, there is no one answer to this question.  Try all different kinds to find what works best for you or ask a friend…um…I guessed you asked me, huh? 
Here is my take on it. As long as the lubricant is condom safe (water-based or silicone based) then I would use whatever.  There are a millón opciones!  Anything from Boy Butter (I really like saying that one) to KY.  They also come in all different sizes.  I would recommend that when you are out buying lube that you go to an Adult Bookstore or online, they usually have these little pillow packs that come in all different types.  Try those out! 
My second favorite es gratis, you know the free stuff that the Men of Illumenate give out.  They have these little pillow packs in all kinds of Flavors and types.  You should check it out, Papi! That way you can save money and have some fun doing it! (Ay, I am so pun-y)  
Whatever you choose, Papi; just make sure that you make healthy choices about sex!
Well, that is what I have to say about it.  So, I am sending you un beso grande y un abrazo fuerte! 
Gracias Querido for Asking Argenta!

Dear Argenta,
A friend recently told me that he liked me "More than friends".  I feel like this is a downward slope and I am not interested in anything but friendship from him, what do I do?

Dear Downward Slope,
Querido, this can be a very touchy subject for people.  Nobody likes rejection, however; it’s a fact of life.  My advice to you would be to sit him down and talk to him about this issue, if he is willing.   It takes a lot of courage to actually tell someone you like them.
There are some things that you should be prepared for.  You are going to bring up some emotion for this person and yourself.  It is hard to tell someone you care about that you don’t want to date them; because you don’t want to hurt their feelings.   Unfortunately, you are going to hurt their feelings.  So if your friend pulls away from you a little, that is okay.  Give them time and space to deal with the rejection.  You should also let him know that you don’t want to lose the friendship that you have.   
Sometimes in these situation emotions run deeper then you thought.  This could cause some problems in the way of a lot of rumors, talk, y Drama.  If you care about the relationship you do have you will do what mi mama always said “Cuanto menos se diga, major” (the less said the better).   Just let these things go. (that’s easy, es cierto?) 
Por otro lado, everything could be fine and at least you both understand the situation.  Let’s hope for that one! Pero Querido, don’t dwell on the subject either.  That is the worst thing.  I have una problema with that.  Dwelling on the situation will only make things worse, move forward.  I say this with caution…Move forward, with or without your friend. 
Well, that is what I have to say about it.  So, I am sending you un beso grande y un abrazo fuerte! 
Gracias Querido for Asking Argenta!

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Heartbreaker and el Perro Loco


So I have this problem; I am the type of guy that people find attractive right off the bat, and would rather see a relationship spur forth than a friendship. I suppose that isn't so bad because most of these people get to know me and decide that being my friend is better than being in a relationship. The reason for this is I'm a messy dater, or at least I think. I feel like I'm on the hunt all the time, and once I find my quarry and become involved with them, I get bored or skittish. This is getting frustrating. I hate being single, but I can't being in a committed relationship with anyone because I feel like I get bored or scared after the Honeymoon effect wears off... please give me something that will break me of this, I feel like I'm leaving a trail of blood, tears, and bodies everywhere I go.

Dear Heartbreaker,
Querido, The first thing I need for you to understand is who you are.  What do you want?  I know that you said that you feel like you are on the hunt all the time.  Maybe this is because you haven’t identified what it is you are actually hunting for!  You see it’s like those times where you are so hungry that you will just about put anything in your mouth!  Instead you need a well-balanced diet. 
Dating can be very messy for one reason…lack of communication.  I hear so many of the Papis talking about this.  If you are interested in a relationship with someone then you must set that up before moving forward.  You have to let people know your intent, because we cannot read minds.   This will also help with the part where you get bored. As cliché as it sounds Communication is the key to any good relationship!
However, I am going to take a step back for a second.  You mentioned that you hate being single…Why?  Are you afraid of being alone?  Querido, you can’t have it both ways.  If you hate being single then you need to work on your relationship skills, in turn; if you can’t be single then you won’t understand how to be in a relationship.  Ms. RuPaul says “if you can’t love yourself, how the hell are you gonna love someone else?”  and I say AMEN!
I want you to do Miss Argenta a favor; I want you to take out a pen and a piece of paper.  I want you to write down these three things:  I FEEL LOVED WHEN, I FEAR, I WANT.   Now when you put those down I want you to make a list of things that fall under those categories.   I want you to think long and hard about what each of those things mean.   Really identify what it is that fits into those phrases.  
I will also provide you with this resource; I want you to read the book Boyfriend 101: A Gay Guy's Guide to Dating, Romance, and Finding True Love by Jim Sullivan.   There are some really great exercises in the book that will help you define what you are looking for and give you tips on how to achieve those goals. 
As for the trail of blood, tears, and bodies…I think it’s time to mend those broken hearts.  Take a moment and talk to these poor Papis.  Talking to them may give you some insight into what is going on.  It will also give you a chance to apologize to help close those chapters of your life. 
Well, that is what I have to say about it.  So, I am going to send you un beso grande y un abrazo fuerte! 
Gracias Querido for Asking Argenta!

Argenta,

I have recently (in the past year or so) discovered that I'm bisexual. The person that helped me understand this part of me has all but locked me out of his mind and left me 4 weeks after "helping me" out. I am still in a sense in love with him. Not only do I owe him thanks for making me into this new person, but I still feel like no matter what he does I would still run back to him with my ears perked and tail wagging, bounding like a dog hopped up on chocolate (not knowing that it's bad for me). HELP
I have recently been able to deal with this situation (although I would love to hear you address that problem still) and though not able to completely stop my blushing cheeks and stupid smiles when I see him I have had the chance to further my search for someone that I can see myself with. One of which is a guy that I have just recently gotten to know and have crushed hard and fast for. Only problem, I don't know if he is to put it frankly, bi/gay. I am going crazy, I think I found someone that I could see myself being with forgetting my past crush that has been pressing me for a year, but I don't know if he is into me...what do I do? HELP
Dear Perro Loco,
HIT THE BREAKS, Querido.  There is a whole lot going on right here!  I will address both issues, but first, let me talk about coming out a little.  This is a process that is sometimes difficult.  It is nice that someone helped you to understand the process; however, it was your strength that gave you the ability to accept yourself and be open about your sexual orientation.  
This is the oldest story in the book; “Our first “loves” break our hearts.”   It may take a while for you to get over that.   You are putting a lot of power into his hands.  You owe him nothing, instead you owe yourself everything.  I said it before; it is your own strength that helped you come to terms with who you are.  This will take some time, but I promise you that you will one day be able to walk away.   If you haven’t had a discussion with this person about how you are feeling, I suggest that you do!  You need to use “I” statements and not accuse anyone of anything.   Just having the ability to get it out will help a lot. 
That feeling of being “hopped up on chocolate” is actually kind of a true statement.  When we fall for someone our brain is wired to create all kinds of chemical reactions.   Some studies show that we release a “drug” called Phenethylamine (PEA).  PEA is a natural monoamine alkaloid, trace amine, and psychoactive drug with stimulant effects that can be found in Chocolate.  It’s kind of like that drunk girl who sings about “Your Love is my Drug”.   Once that dissipates, that feeling will go away too! (See I told you all I know stuff)
As for the second half of that question, two issues! 1) You need to find out if he is gay/bi or whatever.  This means that you have to ask him.  That can be difficult, but probably the most important part.  2) Be careful about “replacing” one for the other.   That is typically called a rebound relationship.   I would recommend taking some time to figure out what you really want.  I also recommend that you read the previous blog posts.  They might give you some insight on how to handle this situation.   Just remember that you have to take care of yourself and make clear decisions about what you want.
Well, that is what I have to say about it.  So, I am going to send you un beso grande y un abrazo fuerte! 
Gracias Querido for Asking Argenta!

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Uncomfortably Numb

Argenta,

I think I am sexually numb. It has gotten to the point that I have slept with guys way into the triple digits, but only actually wanted to sleep with a handful of them. Its like I can't help myself. I feel like I do it to feed to something deep within me that is never truly fed. A craving for contact or closeness that perhaps I never feel like I truly achieve.

I don't want to be like this anymore, but I don't know how to stop. I'm always safe during a hook up, but its gotten so extreme that sometimes I will hook up with someone and then drive to another guys house right after. What is wrong with me? Why can't I control myself?

Dear Numb,
Papi, sometimes in our lives we need to feel that closeness to someone else. That is so natural! I like to feel close to a number of men; Mr. Cartier & Mr. Lauren are my favorite! But, this isn’t about me. 
Primer, “Buen trabajo, Papi” (good job) on playing safe!  You know Argenta loves that! Some old dead man once said: “Our remedies oft in ourselves do lie” (I Googly’d it).  Now, I don’t really know what that means (sometimes old dead people sound smarter); But, I think that you answered your own question.  You said, “I feel like I do it to feed to something deep within me that is never truly fed. A craving for contact or closeness that perhaps I never feel like I truly achieve.”   See you already know the T, Papi.  Let me tell you something, first you have acknowledged within yourself something. Now, Baby, the next step is to try and do something about it. If you truly want change, YOU CAN! 
Mi mamá used to tell me “Al buen entendedor, pocas palabras bastan” which loosely translate to “a good listener is one of few words”.  I would recommend talking to someone who knows a lot about this professionally.  They know stuff too! Let me tell you, Papi, they have helped Miss Argenta many times.  There is nothing wrong with talking to people who can be objective and know stuff too. 
Papi, one time Miss Argenta thought she had lost her mind. (I had only misplaced it)  I went right into that office and said “Argenta needs to talk!” do you know that they took me back and let me talk about myself for one whole hour.  Ay Dios, that’s my favorite subject!  This little mami really helped me.  If you would like those resources email me.
The other thing I love to do is to be with my people! I love to meet and sit with them and listen to their stories! It is always fun to make new friends that make you feel good about you without sex.   There is nothing better than un abrazo fuerte (a strong hug) from a un buen amigo to make you feel warm and fuzzy.  There are lots of ways to make new friends.  You could join a club or go to events for the community.  You can check out our calendar on this blog or contact the GLBT Student Services for their calendar.  I will tell you the Men of Illumenate make this Diva feel good.  (They even gave me my own blog!) Try something new that will make you feel good about YOU!
Well, that is what I have to say about it.  So, I am going to send you un beso grande (a big kiss) y un abrazo fuerte! 
Graias Querido (thank you love), for Asking Argenta! 
Argenta! 


I always feel uncomfortable in places with a lot of gay people. I always feel judged whenever I go to the bar or a gay party. I like hanging with gay people, but in mass quantities I always freeze up. What does that say about me?

Dear Uncomfortable,
Ay querido, I have been there, done that, got a t-shirt, and wrote a country song, but now I am Country Strong!   Let me tell you a story.
When I was a little girl in los Pampas, I always felt different.  Little did I know that was just the feeling of being a Diva.  Anyway, I did not want to hang out with all the other little girls or boys because I always felt that someone was gonna judge me.  Maybe I didn’t have the right clothes or shoes or the right words.  Ay querido, I just felt so right in the wrong place.
When I moved to Bloomington, that first week I went to the bar.  Ay, they were like vultures to a carcass. Everyone wanted to know who this Beautiful Creature was!  So it seemed like I was right back in los Pampas, everyone looking at and talking about me.  I stood there like a, cómo se dice, a deer in head lights. Then I realized, let them talk, let them look…that will make me famous!
Let me get back to your question. Baby, first I need to know what “mass quantities” are and then we need to figure out why nobody invited Argenta!  Sometimes it is a hard road to come out and find a community of your own.  It may seem like people are judging you, but most often that is not the case.  Sometimes, it’s just that they don’t know you.  Our community is a very close knit group.  When we see someone who we have never seen before, it is very easy to put up the defenses and call a threat level orange. 
Another point I would like to make is, sometimes, we do not accept ourselves as much as we should.  They call this Internalized Homophobia. (I Googly’d that too) This may make us feel uncomfortable around other gay people.  This is very common in someone that has just come out. 
I will tell you this.  There are so many beautiful people in our community.  One thing that I have done to get over my shyness is to walk up to people and introduce myself.  Find out a little about them, people love to talk about themselves.  Once you make yourself do this a couple of times, then it will become second nature.  And don’t worry about the haters, haters gonna hate!  Just remember to do you boo, do you!
Well, that is what I have to say about it.  So, I am going to send you un beso grande y un abrazo fuerte! 
Graias Querido for Asking Argenta! 
Argenta!

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Feelings

Dear Argenta,
I think that I have feelings for my friend.  I mean he is exactly what I am looking for, I think.  He is cute, charming, sweet, and makes me feel super amazing when I am with him.  All my friends love him too.  This is huge for me.  He is just an amazing person and I would love to date him.  I can tell him everything and anything, so I don’t want to mess it up.  I think he might like me but I am not sure.  I am such a mess about it and really wish I could know.  Tell me what I should do!

Dear Feelings,
Querido, I am gonna assume that your friend is single.  If not, then you need to leave it alone. First, I want you to take a step back and breath. Querido, are you absolutely certain that you want to take the relationship to another level?  If you do not, you run the risk of losing a friend if this is just a fling.
You can always start with a little harmless flirting and see if he is flirting with you too, remembering that there's no such thing as a 100% definite sign.  I NEVER recommend getting drunk (for obvious reasons) and going on about how you've always loved them and how you should get married (where it is legal) and adopting foreign born children together. This is quite likely to make them run away screaming, even if they liked you in the first place.
Mi mamá  used to say “Hija recuerdo, Quien no llora, no mama”.  This loosely translates to “he who does not cry, will not nurse”.  You have to be brave and tell them that you like him “more-than-friends”. Let him know there's no pressure and if he says 'no' then you still want to be buen amigos. Be prepared for them to say “Gurl, you crazy and I love you as a friend, that’s all”, but always hope for the best.
If he says no, be nice, no matter how disappointed you feel. You may have built things up in your own head and they just don’t feel the same way. Try to check your disappointment and jealousy and still be buen amigos. Keep him as a friend, especially if he is as good of a friend as you say he is.  Nothing better than having someone to  talk to, maybe one day you will look back and laugh about it.  Like mama used to tell me “there are mucho fishes in the oceans”.  Put yourself back out on the market and snag you a sexy Papi! 
Well that is all I have to say about it. Un ambrazo fuerte y un beso con amor.
Gracias Querido for Asking Argenta.