I debated putting this up. As someone who fought long and hard to be considered part of the bear community, it’s only been in the last decade that age has helped the stars align, with hair sprouting out all over and settling into my looks. “e” is up for debate - I grade conservatively.
Ah, the dreaded f- ... Later I learned it was super subjective. Like for some people I was an f+ since I have hairy arms and legs. For others I was an f- because I had no hair in my chest regardless of hair elsewhere...
For some I was a Bear and for others a Sweet-n-low Behr.
I don’t mind it being a thing, really, but it was a constant reminder that I didn’t have what people were looking for. I can finally grow a beard, but I’ll keep it shaved as long as I need to play brass instruments.
I know what you mean. Look at my codes and you’ll understand why I’m usually ostracised by the bear community. BUT that did not stop me from feeling a certain belonging still and getting involved. My art is a small token of appreciation to all the bears who accepted me as one of their own.
