The Dark Side Of Connection

I bet empathy can burn hundreds of calories, just like playing chess.

Empathy can be depleted.

One could do SM like a machine, with prearranged gestures to preserve their energies and disappear behind repetition. I don't do that.

One should not approach this line of work without a great deal of empathy. Listening to every breath and word before, during, and after a session. But it can take its toll.

A decade ago, a sadist friend of mine stressed that I am a magnet for sadomasochistic minds. It is true, I like them, however their emotions can be dangerous. When it ends they feel rested and empty in ways they didn’t know possible, but I might be full in the way I did not ask for. Full of their tensions, anxiety, pain, and frustrations. Not everyone shows up with joy and unicorns to share. And even less can appreciate the effort. I learned to protect myself by choosing subs that value me. I love it, but a tribute is just fair.