I've only been a member here for less than a week. I have been masochist since before I knew what one was. For me, it took a great many years to get past the mask that society laid out for me. A few years ago, I accepted, and really started exploring who and what I was/am. Still, I do find it hard to be that in front of others, even in cyber space. In the really real world, I am about as redneck as it gets, more by the people in my life, and where I am and such. Since the first time I pinched my own nip while...er..."relaxing" I have known it wasn't something to talk about, because of what I was taught. Now, I try to get to know people, and read the situation, before I speak. So, for me anyway (I can speak for no other) it isn't a matter of hiding, it's a matter of assessing the place before I speak. I am a sub, and love being so. Give me time to know you, and soon you'll be telling me to shut up, instead of openup