The naturist's dilemma

Naturists face a dilemma. Should naturists hide away and simply conform to the wishes of a minority and pretend that nothing has disturbed the status quo?

Although naturism harms no-one, uses none of the earth's resources and gives millions greater happiness in life, there are some who feel offended or threatened by non-sexual nudity. Naturists often find it hard to understand the depth of passion evident in the few who object.

There has been a strong movement in recent times to recognise human rights. Understandably this concentrates on the really important areas such the right to liberty and freedom from oppression etc. but it also extends right down to the every day right to have one's beliefs respected.

This is the very nub of the problem. What is the extent of my right to have my beliefs valued? What should I do when a visitor comes to my house? I am acutely aware of the sensitivity that others show on the subject of nudity but if I dress when someone visits my house in order to suit their sensibilities, should not they undress when I visit their house, in order to suit mine? On the face of it, it seems a fair question.

If others fail to recognise my strongly held naturist beliefs, should I call into question aspects of their beliefs? Clearly not. Should I have my beliefs cast out as being unworthy or is the right to hold an honest belief only reserved for members of large religious or political groups? Some act that way.

All I ask is that I am not persecuted nor ridiculed and that I be allowed to follow my beliefs even if that means a very small number of people are offended.

The path I have chosen is not easy, as Rudyard Kipling wrote, 'The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe. To be your own man is a hard business. If you try it, you will be lonely often, and sometimes frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself.'