How do you start the conversation...
A while back I was chatting before a meeting with a guy at work I barely know. Somehow we ended up talking about one of the old social clubs in DC and he brought up the fact that they used to enforce nudity in the swimming pool, and that the policy only changed when women were allowed to join. Some guys apparently refused to put suits on even then!
I found the conversation slightly awkward at the time (the guy is older and much more senior than me), but now I'm wondering if that would have been a good opportunity to gauge his interest in nudism. Clearly he had some interest, even if only humorous. I'm gay so it's not a problem to bring up with gay friends, but how can you tell in a situation like that whether this coworker was just telling an anecdote or potentially looking for other nudists?
I think I would have taken the opportunity to ask the guy if he had been at that club and/or how his view is on social nudity. Or asking if he could tell you more about naturism. Depending on his attitude to these questions you can get further into the topics or leave it.
Yes, responding to seemingly casual commenst from people who probably do not realise that you are a naturist need careful consideration. Is their tone one of casual bemusement or mild titillation? Are they taking what they consider to be a moral standpoint of disapproval? Or is there genuine curiosity on their part? (Diping their feet in the water, as it were - with or without swimming trunks!)
From reading your account of the encounter, it does sound as though he was talking from experience.
I think this would be a difficult conversation to become part of. The problem, I think, is that a more senior work colleague is involved. Sometimes work relationships are best not made too personal. It's not an easy choice, I know.
Best wishes,
John
I think this would be a difficult conversation to become part of. The problem, I think, is that a more senior work colleague is involved. Sometimes work relationships are best not made too personal. It's not an easy choice, I know.Best wishes,John
Agreed! I think it would have been appropriate to ask if he had gone swimming there (or elsewhere) nude and maybe his views on it. I would have stopped it there, though. Mostly curious to hear if this is how people bring this sort of thing up in conversation. Was it a cue or was I reading into it?
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