[StrawDog]

I often think of that song, and it's usually in my head when drafting up up/answering questions. Adore me.

1. Headphones or earphones?

Headphones.

2. What is your "getting ready for a date" ritual?

This is a thing? I might have been doing it wrong... Not actually been on that many dates, as such; I usually meet people doing strange things, and then we decide to do strange things together, which become more regular and branch out until we realise we are strangely entwined.

3. Have you labeled yourself things (such as OCD, depression, bi-polar, ADD, ADHD) without a professional's opinion?

Well, yes and no. I'm living with chronic illness, and during the first few years was having test after test and not getting any answers; things were falling apart and I didn't know what the hell was going on. Eventually after doing some digging, and tracking down others who presented the same, I had a pretty good idea of what was wrong, though didn't say for sure, and carried on as best I could as I didn't want to ask for help. Things progressed to the point where I needed that help and official recognition to be able to continue my education, I was able to meet with a specialist and my suspicions were confirmed. It was a horrible relief after years of confusion.

4. Aliens. Do they exist? Are they here already?

I believe there is other life somewhere, though doubt they are here. Still, the universe is greater than I can fathom, so I like to keep that little spark of possibility alive, no matter how unlikely. Good mental exercise, if nothing else.

5. Pirates. Favorite non-fictional pirate?

Gan Ning. If you're into pirates and have not come across this name, you are in for a treat. When he outgrew piracy he became a general, like you do.

6. Do you prefer long hair or short hair on the opposite sex?

I prefer to take people as individual and see what suits them, or that they like for themselves. Overall, I do have a preference for long, dark hair, on both men and women.

7. If you discovered an unknown land... what would you name it?

Hope.

8. In your opinion, what is the most adequate type of legal system?

I don't believe we've had one, yet. At least, not in practice. However, I hope I'm simply wrong and ignorant.

9. Would you rather be the cheater or be cheated on?

Cheated on; I can handle being hurt, and to use that experience to become a better person. By cheating on another I commit an act that undermines too many values I hold dear and has more harmful, internal, consequences to me than it would be worth. That being said, I am polyamorous, so may have a slightly different mentality.

10. Have you ever cheated in school (pre-school through grad school)? Don't lie! :P

Not that I recall. I can't say I've not been tempted on occasion. If ever I have looked over someone's shoulder, it has been after I've answered myself, and mostly out of curiosity, leading to panic. Never changed an answer though, and I've managed to get to where I need to be with my own work.

11. How many children do you want, if any?

I've never wanted children, and can't see that changing. There was someone I loved once who I would have settled with, but that was mostly because I know she wants children, rather than wanting them for myself. They would have been well loved, though.

Whilst not wanting to bring a child into the world, I would like to look after some that are already here, and need a good and loving home. As a single male and drifter, that is, however, unlikely.

Since my niece came along, I know that I will never have a baby of my own. When with her, she is my sole focus, and I'd really never get anything done at all if it was 24/7.

12. Do you consider sex to be an important part of a successful romantic relationship?

It can be, and often is. Some people need different things, though, and I don't like to discount other possibilities. I am quite sexual, but there are many ways to express that.

13. How long have you gone without bathing?

Hard to say; I've been bed-ridden and pretty out of it at times, for extended periods.

14. Do you like the way you look?

Not at all.

15. Have you ever found yourself quoting a Disney movie?

Not often, but sometimes I just want to be part of that world.

16. When was the last time you blushed?

A few days back when I got caught on an elaborate cake raid. Well, it wasn't elaborate, at all; I'm just saying that to feel better.

17. Are you happy?

No. Working on it, though.

18. What is your favorite pastime?

I can't choose between martial arts and reading poetry. Also, I love learning and hunting for information.

19. Least favorite food?

Well, I am a vegetarian, so I assume you mean least favourite that I can still eat? Goats cheese.

20. Who has inspired you to be a better person?

I'm trying for everyone and everything. It doesn't always work, though, so I'll take me mam and my niece. I also have a pretty incredible mentor.

Also, I had a teacher in school who lived through Apartheid. She was my first real exposure to Feminism, all round badass, and helped me stay in school when my health was declining and other teachers just wanted me out. I would quite literally be dead without her, and will never forget or be fully able to repay that debt.


Thank you. More, please!