Paolo Coelho on Sexuality

I just finished reading Brida. It wasn't as mind-captivating as By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept but nonetheless it was interesting. At the latter part of the book, an appendix if you will, he discusses sexuality. One of the most controversial topics of this millennia, many have tried to fathom or understand what sexuality is. However the funny things about it, coincidental I should say, is that his "conversation" was a mimic of my Theology discussion on sexuality. 

In the book he mentions 8 keys to a proper journeying with the other, in our enGENDERed world. These 8 Keys, if taken into account, will allow oneself to be led into a journey that will allow us to unravel horizons that were otherwise not available.

1. You are not alone

" If the other person loves you, he or she is having the same doubts, however secure you may seem. "

2. Open the secret box of  your fantasies

" there are no sexual standards, and you must find your own, respecting only one restriction: never do anything without the other person's consent."

3. Give that which is sacred a sense of sanctity

" For this one must be as innocent as a child, and learn to accept miracles as blessings. Be creative, purify your soul through rituals you invent yourself-- such as creating a sacred space, making offerings, learning to laugh together, in order to break down the barriers of inhibitions. Understand that what you are doing is a manifestation of God's energy."

4. Explore your opposite side

" If you are a man seek at times to act like a woman- vise versa. 

5. Understand that the physical orgasm is not exactly the only objective of a sexual act, but a consequence which may or may not occur.

" Pleasure has nothing to with the orgasm, but with the encounter..."

6. Be like a river

"...flowing between opposite banks, such as a mountain and sand. On one side, natural tension or the other total relaxation..."

7. Identify your fears

" and share them with your partner..."

8. Allow yourself to have pleasure

" ...just as you are anxious to give, the other person wants to do exactly the same. If, when the two bodies meet, both want to give and receive, any problems vanish.."

I wanted to share this with M. last night but never got a chance, perhaps it wasnt meant to be. Moreover, these 8 key steps are general rules anyone should follow not only in terms of sexuality or the sexual act. Condensed it just meant to know the value of chastity (i.e. a proper reverence for things) and to act according to the Golden Rule, that is to act how you want yourself to be treated.