Quote Originally Posted by bambina View Post
I'm afraid to take that next step in this lifestyle because I fear it'll come back to haunt me. What do I do? Do I just accept the fact that there are just some things that I'll never be able to experience (like going to a real slave auction or a huge BDSM event)?
This may not be the answer you want to hear, but -- I think so, yes. I have a delicious fantasy involving being led down a public street naked, bound, and leashed... but that's certainly something I'll never be able to experience. As delightful as fantasies are, the reality of life does come first. If you have determined to steer yourself towards a high-profile job, you really DO have to take that into account when deciding how much to involve yourself in the BDSM scene. I have known others who have limited their behavior or chosen not to partake in certain activities in order to protect themselves. It's disappointing, it's frustrating... but ultimately, if that career is worth it, you'll be satisfied for it.

Now does that mean you shouldn't get involved in BDSM at all? Of course not. It just means you'll have to play much more carefully. Few people are truly open about their BDSM lifestyle in real life - think about how many subs in 24/7 D/s relationships wear subtle collars designed to be mistaken for jewelry. I have been to BDSM clubs and swingers parties and never once seen a camera - even those of us who don't want high-power jobs don't want our private lives to be made public. Play cautiously, play discreetly, and accept that our choices dictate our actions. Enjoy what you are able to experience. Have hot hot fantasies about the things that are off-limits for practical reasons.