Recently, comments on a forum I'm a member of got me to thinking about my own participation and views on being an active member of the "lifestyle" (swinging, as most people think of it).  I'm amazed that even after all this time and all the informational pieces that are out there for people to educate themselves on exactly what is entailed in the participation of an alternative sexual lifestyle that people still tend to think of it as a "throw your car keys into a bowl and have at it" kind of situation.

Nothing could be further from the truth.  Sure, some may participate in this kind of activity but a majority of those active in the lifestyle have a very strict set of guidelines and rules.  For instance, how many readers are aware that in nearly every lifestyle or swinging club there exists the explicit rule that the women call the shots?  Are people aware that it doesn't automatically involve BSDM or huge orgies?  Did you know that you could be living right next-door to a "swingers" club?

My hope is to go over misconceptions and the ideals behind the lifestyle over the next few weeks.  If there is something you've always wondered or were confused about, please feel free to leave a comment and I'll incorporate your question into upcoming posts.