Robin's Profile (2024)

	Note to readers: This article is part of "Robin's Personal Memories Project"
	The information on this page is from my personal history and memories and should NOT be used for any reason other than reading enjoyment

Robin Curtis Roberts:

A Profile of a 83-Year-Old Member of the BDSM Community in San Jose

Robin Curtis Roberts, an 83-year-old man residing in San Jose, is an integral member of the BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Sadism, and Masochism) community, exemplifying how diverse and inclusive this subculture can be. While many may associate BDSM with younger generations, Roberts' presence within the community highlights that age is no barrier to involvement in this unique lifestyle. His journey into the world of BDSM is one of personal discovery, openness, and acceptance, reflecting the evolving nature of self-expression and human sexuality.

A Lifelong Journey of Exploration

Born in 1941, Robin Curtis Roberts grew up during a time when social norms around sexuality were much more restrictive. Like many individuals from his era, Roberts likely had to navigate the complexities of personal desires in a world that often rejected or stigmatized alternative forms of sexual expression. While the BDSM community in the United States began to gain more visibility in the late 20th century, for much of his early life, the topic was largely confined to the underground.

It was only in adulthood that Roberts discovered the BDSM world. Like many people, his interest evolved through personal experiences, relationships, and the realization that he was not alone in his desires. As a man who has lived through the cultural shifts of the 20th and 21st centuries, Roberts has witnessed the growing visibility and normalization of BDSM, which has moved from the fringes to mainstream discussions of sexuality and consent.

Breaking Stereotypes and Stigma

In recent years, the portrayal of the BDSM community has become more nuanced in the media, with positive depictions in books, television shows, and movies. However, for many people, the misconceptions and stereotypes still persist. BDSM practitioners are often inaccurately viewed as being mentally unstable or as engaging in harmful or abusive behaviors. In reality, BDSM is about consensual power dynamics, mutual respect, and communication.

Roberts, like many members of the BDSM community, demonstrates that these stereotypes are not only misleading but harmful. As an 83-year-old man, his presence within the community serves as a testament to the fact that age does not dictate one's ability to engage in consensual, healthy BDSM practices. His story breaks down barriers around the notion that only certain types of people participate in the BDSM lifestyle, highlighting that it is open to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.

Living in San Jose: A Hub of LGBTQ+ and Alternative Communities San Jose, a vibrant city in Silicon Valley, has long been known for its progressive values and inclusive atmosphere. As a part of the greater Bay Area, San Jose has a rich history of embracing LGBTQ+ and alternative communities. The city is home to several social clubs, events, and safe spaces for people who identify as part of these groups.

For Roberts, San Jose offers a supportive environment in which he can express himself freely and openly within the BDSM community. Like many of his peers, Roberts appreciates the sense of belonging that the local community provides. In these spaces, individuals can meet others who share similar interests and engage in discussions that are not only about sexual practices but also about trust, negotiation, and safety.

The Role of Consent and Communication

One of the most important principles of BDSM is the concept of safe, sane, and consensual (SSC) practices. This is a philosophy that underscores everything from physical activities to psychological interactions within BDSM. Roberts' involvement in the community mirrors these values, as he emphasizes the importance of clear, ongoing communication and mutual respect in all relationships. Consent is paramount in BDSM, and participants are encouraged to continually communicate their boundaries and limits.

At 83, Roberts is not only a participant but also a mentor for younger members of the BDSM community. His experiences have given him the wisdom to help guide others, particularly newcomers, in understanding the emotional and psychological aspects of BDSM, in addition to the physical elements. His insights serve as a bridge between generations, ensuring that the values of consent, respect, and care continue to be prioritized.

Overcoming the Challenges of Aging

As Roberts gets older, he faces the challenges that many older people in the BDSM community encounter. With age can come limitations in physical strength and endurance, which may make certain activities more difficult. However, for Roberts and others in similar situations, this is often seen as an opportunity to adapt practices to fit one's changing needs. BDSM is not limited to specific activities; it encompasses a wide array of experiences and can be tailored to each individual, regardless of age.

For Roberts, age may have slowed some of his physical capabilities, but it has not diminished his passion for BDSM. He finds fulfillment in other aspects of the lifestyle, such as the emotional connection, the power dynamics, and the psychological exchange that is often at the core of BDSM relationships. This adaptability is a testament to the versatility of the BDSM community, where one can continue to participate and enjoy intimacy in various ways throughout their life.

Conclusion

Robin Curtis Roberts' story is one of defying expectations and embracing a life that is authentic and true to his personal desires. As an 83-year-old man who is actively involved in the BDSM community in San Jose, he embodies the spirit of openness, communication, and mutual respect that are central to the BDSM lifestyle. His presence serves as an important reminder that sexuality, desire, and human connection are not bound by age, and that the BDSM community, like any other, is a space for people of all walks of life to explore, grow, and be accepted.