As a dwarf, do people treat you differently when you walk down the street, are in the grocery store, etc? I know that often times people will treat people differently who are visibly different in some way.
(For example, my friends are often politically incorrect and or insensitive, and will use the terms gay, ***, homo, etc. as an insult. However, when in the company of someone who is gay/bi, they won't talk as much, often carefully choosing their words when speaking. Or, sometimes it's the opposite, as I've seen kids who are overweight in my school be called horrible things like "fat slobs" to their face, often with racial slurs included.)
Do people do either of these to you or are you treated how you should be (i.e. as a normal member of society with a different appearance).
That's all.
If I worded something offensively, I really do not mean it.
I get a very wide array of reactions. One I get alot (including here in this very thead...) is "over-cautious"; some people are so worried about saying something wrong, or wording something incorrectly (not slamming you guys, really, just saying). They're afraid to use the words "small", "little," "tiny," etc., even in proper context. I'm pretty laid-back about that kind of stuff, it'd be more hassle than it's worth to get up-in-arms over it. The best way I've learned to deal with these kind of people is jokes. Let them know I'm comfortable, and they'll relax. For example, sometime after Lorwyn's release, I was playing a friends Kithkin deck against a stranger at the card shop (just for fun, don't really like playing Magic competetively), and did the tytpical Turn 1 Plains/Goldmeadow Stalwart, and he let out a little snort. He then got a look of sheer terror on his face. I just shrugged and said, "Yeah, I know. I just thought playing Giants would be too ironic." He loosened up.
This sometimes backfires and just makes them feel more awkward (kind of like a white person laughing at a black joke, I guess), and it's usually hard to salvage after that.
I also get the other end of the spectrum, those that never learned the meaning of the word "tact" (mostly teenage boys). I had to deal with the "M-word" alot in middle and high school. It doesn't happen very often anymore, but on occation. I mostly just find ways to enjoy myself at their expense (kind of "improvise" the moment), it makes it a bit less frustrating.
Fortunately, I live in a fairly close-knit community, so for the most part I get treated "normally", but pretty much everyone I know had some trouble the first encounter. Can't blame them, the first time I met my legless friend was kind of awkward (for both of us); that's just how it is, you get over it. Usually, by the third time I meet someone, it's not a big deal for them anymore. When walking to work, I occationally get a "double-take" from a passerby, but for the most part I've learned to just tune that stuff out when in public.
A standard "euphamism treadmill." It was originally the correct term for people of short stature, but then people began using it in a derogatory manner (loooong ago), so it became a sort of "bad word." The same thing happened with words like "crippled" and "retarded." Those words were once proper terms, but have now become "politically incorrect." That's just how thigns worked.
It may also have to do with the fact that actual midgets are extremely rare, as we know how to treat the major causes of the problem (it's usually a hormone imbalance that can be corrected). So calling a Dwarf the M word would be like calling a Vietnamese person Chinese; it's just the wrong term.
Have you ever read the book "The Speed of Dark"? It seems kind of odd, but reading through here made me think of that book.
I had not heard of that book beofre you mentioned it. It sounds interesting. I may order it off of Amazon (though I have a card of about 2 dozen movies and CDs that take priority :p).
Here's something I thought some might find interesting: here is the blog of Brad Williams, a Dwarf comedian (you may recognize him from Mind of Mencia). Some of them are quite an interesting read. While most of the newer ones are just him promoting his tours and talking about how much he admires Carlos Mencia (someone I don't hold in quite so high regards), some of his older ones are really good. I'll share a few of the good ones (there are more, go read them all!):
Frequently Asked Question: I personally have never been asked this, and now that I've read this, I'm kind of suprised (yet relieved).
If I understand your question, no, I use the same keyboard as my family; I use pretty much the same-sized everything. I know they make scaled things such as chairs, beds, keyboards and mouses (mice?), etc., but the way I see it, things won't be scaled for me in the real world, so I might as well be used to using regular-sized stuff.
How do people act towards you? are they curious or overkind? I found that they treated me better when I have had one of my many broken bones than they would otherwise, but this does get annoying after a while.
Both, and many other reactions. Curiousity is understandable and acceptable; I don't mind questions (hence this whole thread), but the occational stupid or inappropriate one makes me much less accepting of inquiries. I think there are alot of misconceptions out there, and I like informing people.
I hate the "overkind", or more accurately, the "pity" reactions. That obviously gets old really fast. I'm not overly sensitive; I'm pretty perceptive and can tell when it's just how someone is, and when it's a"oh, you poor thing" reaction.
Funny story time! I have a friend that started dating a girl that worked at a home repair store (like Home Depot or Lowe's). However, instead of simply introducing me to her (y'know, like normal people), we went to her work while she was on and had me wander around her department for awhile (I think lights. That was interesting). She eventually saw me and came over, smiling, and asked in that perky customer service tone if she could help me with anything. And I just went off on her. I was saying stuff like, "What, do I look like I need help? You just assume that because I'm a Little Person, I need help? You think I can't do anything myself?! 'Oh, look at the poor little man, he can't do anything on his own.'" Just when it seemed she was about to cry, my friend came up behind her and said to me, "Hey David." I smiled at him and waved. She looked at him, then back at me, then started beating the crap out of him. We all had good laugh about it later.
I must say that I congratulate you on your "coming out" so to speak (not that it was truly hidden, just hidden from us here on MTGS, I suppose). I've had the priviledge of knowing you after said "coming out" so I must say that you seem to be a much happier person after it, and I applaud you sir. I also laugh with you, though not for the same reasons, at my initial post in the Gaymers thread. I'm glad that you didn't take it poorly, as prior to that post, I had no idea that you were a dwarf. Not a single clue at all. Go figure that I'm oblivious to the digital world around me eh?
I didn't really have a question for you when I started typing this but thinking about it now, I do.
I like to think that each of our so-called faults in life can be seen as a strength in the right light, and when it is such, we display it (through some means) almost as a badge. Referencing back to that prior post I mentioned, I said something along the lines of being a depressed individual and didn't care who read (after all, it's on the internet now, I can't hide it, lol) it and took strength from it that I was able to identify more of myself in knowing that it is truly a part of who I am. My question is, how long did it take you for you to equate your dwarfism as a personal strength?
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Nocturnal God of Chaos of The Æsir Probably the most random person you will ever meet. Trust me on this one. Well, I'm off to poop.
Oh, my username is the same on Xbox and Cockatrice, add me!
"For some of us, easier Magic is good Magic, but if you are one of those 'intelligent types,' feel free to play your Hive Mind mirrors. The rest of us are here for the fireworks." - Kent Ketter
Playing in Type 2...BGRJundHearted
prior to that post, I had no idea that you were a dwarf. Not a single clue at all. Go figure that I'm oblivious to the digital world around me eh?
I don't think we'd ever interacted prior to that post. Maybe we did, I don't recall. It's something I try not to bring up outside the "Outside Magic" subforum, simply because it's not relevant. One of the main reasons I didn't "come out" for so long was because I didn't wander much outside of the Custom Cards and Sets section, and it didn't seem like my size mattered there. When I started investigating clans and Entertainment, it was worth bringing up because I was now talking about myself as a real person, not just an internet persona.
I like to think that each of our so-called faults in life can be seen as a strength in the right light, and when it is such, we display it (through some means) almost as a badge. Referencing back to that prior post I mentioned, I said something along the lines of being a depressed individual and didn't care who read (after all, it's on the internet now, I can't hide it, lol) it and took strength from it that I was able to identify more of myself in knowing that it is truly a part of who I am. My question is, how long did it take you for you to equate your dwarfism as a personal strength?
I don't really view my condition as a strength; I don't think being a Dwarf, or even dealing with the fact that I'm a Dwarf, makes me "stronger" or better than anyone else, it's just part of who I am. Maybe I'm not reading you question right... Maybe instead of me going off on some unrelated tangent (which I surely could), you could clarify what exactly you mean? Or maybe I'm not thinking/seeing straight from too much Rock Band...
You're mostly right, that it is a part of each of us, these "faults". I'm saying that it's a strength to be able to recognize and still move forward with our lives with them. That's all.
...I think. I was kinda sleepy when I typed the question, so it's a little foggy, thinking back on it now.
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Nocturnal God of Chaos of The Æsir Probably the most random person you will ever meet. Trust me on this one. Well, I'm off to poop.
Oh, my username is the same on Xbox and Cockatrice, add me!
"For some of us, easier Magic is good Magic, but if you are one of those 'intelligent types,' feel free to play your Hive Mind mirrors. The rest of us are here for the fireworks." - Kent Ketter
Playing in Type 2...BGRJundHearted
I guess it wasn't until last year I really "accepted" myself as a Dwarf. At the same time, I'm still dealling with it. It think it's a bit more perpetual that other "hurdle" issues people deal with (though I don't know, others may say the same about their issue). Alot of other problems are more about self-acceptence, and while Dwarfism has that, there's also the social aspect. Anytime I meet new people, I'm going to have that to get over. Moving away from home is going to be brutal.
Hey, Howler. You surely are a forum member who's hard to miss. This thread is a great idea, what better way to getting to know you?
OK, here go my questions:
1. Do you agree on the thought that most (heterosexual) dwarves are (or like to appear as) sexual freaks? They might be more "normal" than most people about it, and some seem to get as much ...ehm... intercourse as anyone else, yet the public figure about dwarves in modern cultures is pretty much of a sex-obsessed bizarre person... what's your take on it? Is it because most people assume dwarves don't experience as much coitus as other people, thus vent their frustrations this way? Or is it because of the historical facetiousness that states that being a dwarf is not being normal? Any way, this sort of sickens me (the fact that dwarf comedians exploit themselves as sexual objects).
2. Do you attribute a higher intelligence to dwarfism? Or any other heightened part of dwarves as a by-product of possessing the gene?
3. Does your size actually help you attract more men? Would it be any different if you were heterosexual? You seem like a really cool guy.
4. Isn't Peter Dinklage one of the best actors of this generation?;) I definitely think he is. Do you think his wife deserves him?:p
Have fun answering these (as soon as a question becomes unfun, drop it).
1. Do you agree on the thought that most (heterosexual) dwarfs are (or like to appear as) sexual freaks? They might be more "normal" than most people about it, and some seem to get as much ...ehm... intercourse as anyone else, yet the public figure about dwarfs in modern cultures is pretty much of a sex-obsessed bizarre person... what's your take on it? Is it because most people assume dwarfs don't experience as much coitus as other people, thus vent their frustrations this way? Or is it because of the historical facetiousness that states that being a dwarf is not being normal? Any way, this sort of sickens me (the fact that dwarf comedians exploit themselves as sexual objects).
No, I don't think Dwarfs by default are sexual freaks, but that's not to say they can't be. We're still people, and just like regular sized people, we have sexual fantasies and fetishes. I think it's just viewed as "bizarre" when it's a Dwarf because, well, Dwarfs are viewed as bizarre.
Remember when Verne Troyer's sex tape was leaked? TMZ apparently posted a 15 second, PG-13 rated clip of it, and in a matter of hours, it accumulated several hundred-thousand views before being taken down. I seriously doubt this was because all those people find Troyer attractive. It's because people are curious how "it" works with an LP. I think that's why some famous Dwarf actors/comedians exploit the sex angle; they know it will get people's attention.
However, I don't know how much you can blame them; if you look at any other comedian, sex is just as prevalent. Comedians of all shapes, colors, and sizes tell jokes about sex because that's what the audience wants. For example, Brad Williams has alot of jokes that revolve around various sexcapades and one-night-stands he's "had" (I'm sure he makes some of them up, just like all comedians), and alot of them are only funny because of his size. However, you see the same sort of thing done by other comics; think of all the Latino comedians who's entire basis for a set is about the fact that they're Latino. So it's not really fair singling Brad out, it's just that he's more noticable.
2. Do you attribute a higher intelligence to dwarfism? Or any other heightened part of dwarfs as a by-product of possessing the gene?
I don't think being a Dwarf makes you smarter by itself, but I know that sometimes people in a disadvantaged position will be more motivated individuals, thereby achieving greater things. For example, my legless friend said when he was younger, people telling him "you can't" just made him try harder. He did a season of little league baseball just because he was told he couldn't, and he wanted to prove he could. Not so much to others, but to himself. I think that's very common, including among Dwarfs.
3. Does your size actually help you attract more men? Would it be any different if you were heterosexual? You seem like a really cool guy.
Well, it certainly attracts attention. During a failed foray into online dating, anytime I told someone I was a Dwarf (since they apparently didn't bother reading my profile, which clearly stated it :-/), I usually got one of two reactions: they either lost any and all interest they might have had in me, or they got way too interest. They would start talking about SM/bondage stuff, and that just isn't my thing.
I also got alot of messages basically saying, "Hey, you're a m*****! We should have sex!" Classy, I know. This likely goes back to the sexual curiosity, and I'm sure this happens to regular-sized guys/girls of all preferences as well. So, yes, being a Dwarf has helped me attract men, but not in the way I want. I'm currently "off-the-market" (i.e. not looking) and I'm terrified what kind of dating follies I'll have once I start going to bars and alcohol enters the mix... *shutter* And I'm sure I'd have similar experiences/problems women. Oh, wait, I do...
4. Isn't Peter Dinklage one of the best actors of this generation?;) I definitely think he is.
Hell. Yes.
I think the main reason most people haven't heard of him is that he does have a tendency to appear in bad movies. Sure, The Station Agent is absolutely amazing, Prince Caspian was good (I liked it), and there are a few other "hidden gems" he did. But he did alot of bit parts in some indie films that just weren't that great. He is one of the few actors I can say that, even if I've hated the movie, I've always enjoyed his performance, no matter how small.
No, I don't think Dwarfs by default are sexual freaks, but that's not to say they can't be. We're still people, and just like regular sized people, we have sexual fantasies and fetishes. I think it's just viewed as "bizarre" when it's a Dwarf because, well, Dwarfs are viewed as bizarre.
Remember when Verne Troyer's sex tape was leaked? TMZ apparently posted a 15 second, PG-13 rated clip of it, and in a matter of hours, it accumulated several hundred-thousand views before being taken down. I seriously doubt this was because all those people find Troyer attractive. It's because people are curious how "it" works with an LP. I think that's why some famous Dwarf actors/comedians exploit the sex angle; they know it will get people's attention.
First paragraph was what I expected/thought all along, but the second one really answered my question is a satisfying way.
I don't think being a Dwarf makes you smarter by itself, but I know that sometimes people in a disadvantaged position will be more motivated individuals, thereby achieving greater things. For example, my legless friend said when he was younger, people telling him "you can't" just made him try harder. He did a season of little league baseball just because he was told he couldn't, and he wanted to prove he could. Not so much to others, but to himself. I think that's very common, including among Dwarfs.
I also thought about that, and it makes all the sense in the world. Reminds me of Lost's John Locke:p ("don't tell me what I can't do!")
Well, it certainly attracts attention. During a failed foray into online dating, anytime I told someone I was a Dwarf (since they apparently didn't bother reading my profile, which clearly stated it :-/), I usually got one of two reactions: they either lost any and all interest they might have had in me, or they got way too interest. They would start talking about SM/bondage stuff, and that just isn't my thing.
I also got alot of messages basically saying, "Hey, you're a m*****! We should have sex!" Classy, I know. This likely goes back to the sexual curiosity, and I'm sure this happens to regular-sized guys/girls of all preferences as well. So, yes, being a Dwarf has helped me attract men, but not in the way I want. I'm currently "off-the-market" (i.e. not looking) and I'm terrified what kind of dating follies I'll have once I start going to bars and alcohol enters the mix... *shutter* And I'm sure I'd have similar experiences/problems women. Oh, wait, I do...
Oh... sorry. I also suspected that, and I guess sometimes it's fun, sometimes it's not.
I think the main reason most people haven't heard of him is that he does have a tendency to appear in bad movies. Sure, The Station Agent is absolutely amazing, Prince Caspian was good (I liked it), and there are a few other "hidden gems" he did. But he did alot of bit parts in some indie films that just weren't that great. He is one of the few actors I can say that, even if I've hated the movie, I've always enjoyed his performance, no matter how small.
Well, I saw him in Underdog and Penelope and he was just brilliant, and yes, perhaps the best part of both movies. He's just breathtaking and exceedingly devoted to his roles. He reminds me of those classic villains that just make you love them... those are rarely seen nowadays.
Here's some interesting questions for you. You mentioned in the "Is Merry Christmas offensive" thread that you consider yourself LDS (Edit This post in particular.. Do you consider yourself a practicing Mormon still? How did friends/family/those of you faith react to finding out you were homosexual? Has there been any backlash from your ward/branch after making that decision? Do you ever feel at odds with your faith and your sexuality, knowing that the Mormon Church has a very strong Anti-homosexual stance?
Here's some interesting questions for you. You mentioned in the "Is Merry Christmas offensive" thread that you consider yourself LDS (Edit This post in particular.. Do you consider yourself a practicing Mormon still?
Yes, I am, actually. I go to church, I read my scriptures, say my prayers (most of the time), and all the other things a "good Mormon" does. In fact, the only places I say I consistently slip up are watching R-rated movies, and parts of my music collection couldn't accurately be described as "wholesome."
How did friends/family/those of you faith react to finding out you were homosexual?
They don't know, I'm not out yet. I did tell my bishop during our discussions about the prospect of me serving as mission. We tried working through it (you could say we tried to "cure" me), but it just didn't take. Until I feel there's something wrong, we can't fix it. The reason it isn't a real big issue yet is because I haven't "done anything" yet; I entertain some inappropriate thoughts (and, let's face it, who doesn't?), but have yet to act on them. We still meet every other month or so, just kind of checking up to see if anything has changed. (Sidenote: my family isn't LDS, only I am. I joined my Junior year of high school.)
Has there been any backlash from your ward/branch after making that decision?
Strangely enough, I'm not too concerned with any sort of backlash if/when I come out to them. There are a few families that I'm pretty close to, usually due to a child I'm friends with, and thus far they've been very supportive of me, even when my plans haven't fit with the Church exactly. I'd like to hope that won't change if they find out.
Do you ever feel at odds with your faith and your sexuality, knowing that the Mormon Church has a very strong Anti-homosexual stance?
Yes, sometimes, but for the most part, I try not to think about it. I realize there will come a time that I will be forced to choose between the two. Until then, I'm just trying to figure things out, sort of "weigh my options." Not the greatest of plans, but hey, I sort of thrive on doing things in an "unconventional" manner.
What a coincidence, I also though about that, immediately (see, Howler? You're just FULL of surprises... probably one of the most interesting forum members I've seen).
In fact, the only places I say I consistently slip up are watching R-rated movies, and parts of my music collection couldn't accurately be described as "wholesome."
You're ok. It's near-impossible to live in today's world and still be 100% faithful to your religion.
The reason it isn't a real big issue yet is because I haven't "done anything" yet; I entertain some inappropriate thoughts (and, let's face it, who doesn't?)
Yup, same reason. I've noticed you can't be a cool, open-minded person yet stand 100% on your faith in yout religion. It kinda goes against universality.
I say most of this stuff because one of my best friends of all is a Mormon, and he's really open-minded and cool (some would describe me with the same words:cool:). He does many things an extremely devout Mormon wouldn't do because he knows that in the big picture it matters little. It's just surprising how dedicated to his religion he is (he's a future missionary, in fact), yet how universal he acts concerning what Latter-Day Saints forbid... you can say he's my perfect equivalent (I'm a faithful Catholic yet many of my practices and even beliefs are more befitting of an agnostic. I guess you can say I'm like St. Augustine or many saints: someone who practices his religion yet sees things as he deems correct, thinking by himself rather than by someone else).
You're ok. It's near-impossible to live in today's world and still be 100% faithful to your religion.
I'm sure I could be better about it, and I actually was until I "discovered" Peter Dinklage last year. Most of the movies he's been in are rated R, and once I started watching those, the floodgates opened, and I stopped worrying about the rating and just watching movies that interest me.
I say most of this stuff because one of my best friends of all is a Mormon, and he's really open-minded and cool (some would describe me with the same words:cool:). He does many things an extremely devout Mormon wouldn't do because he knows that in the big picture it matters little. It's just surprising how dedicated to his religion he is (he's a future missionary, in fact), yet how universal he acts concerning what Latter-Day Saints forbid.
Good for him. I really wanted to serve a mission. There was some uncertainty about whether I'd be allowed to, but I went ahead and made it a moot issue by being gay.
I have a friend who just left for his mission earlier this month. I watched several R-rated movies with him; his favorite was Boondock Saints. He also, like me, had some more "questionable" music tastes (though not as bad as mine). Are these things discouraged by the church? Yes, Is he going to be a great missionary? Hells yeah. That kind of stuff only effects you as much as you let it. He never let any of the "inappropriate" stuff he saw/heard leak into his actual behavior, and I think that's the important part, why those standards are in place in the church.
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(For example, my friends are often politically incorrect and or insensitive, and will use the terms gay, ***, homo, etc. as an insult. However, when in the company of someone who is gay/bi, they won't talk as much, often carefully choosing their words when speaking. Or, sometimes it's the opposite, as I've seen kids who are overweight in my school be called horrible things like "fat slobs" to their face, often with racial slurs included.)
Do people do either of these to you or are you treated how you should be (i.e. as a normal member of society with a different appearance).
That's all.
If I worded something offensively, I really do not mean it.
Thanks,
Adam
This sometimes backfires and just makes them feel more awkward (kind of like a white person laughing at a black joke, I guess), and it's usually hard to salvage after that.
I also get the other end of the spectrum, those that never learned the meaning of the word "tact" (mostly teenage boys). I had to deal with the "M-word" alot in middle and high school. It doesn't happen very often anymore, but on occation. I mostly just find ways to enjoy myself at their expense (kind of "improvise" the moment), it makes it a bit less frustrating.
Fortunately, I live in a fairly close-knit community, so for the most part I get treated "normally", but pretty much everyone I know had some trouble the first encounter. Can't blame them, the first time I met my legless friend was kind of awkward (for both of us); that's just how it is, you get over it. Usually, by the third time I meet someone, it's not a big deal for them anymore. When walking to work, I occationally get a "double-take" from a passerby, but for the most part I've learned to just tune that stuff out when in public.
Why?
Hey, you! Yeah, you behind the computer screen! You're unconstitutional.
America == Velociraptor
Play IRC mafia. (/join #mafia)
It may also have to do with the fact that actual midgets are extremely rare, as we know how to treat the major causes of the problem (it's usually a hormone imbalance that can be corrected). So calling a Dwarf the M word would be like calling a Vietnamese person Chinese; it's just the wrong term.
RIP Krensae Fluidtail: Sleep well with the fish
Frequently Asked Question: I personally have never been asked this, and now that I've read this, I'm kind of suprised (yet relieved).
Weeman: 'Nuff said.
A Quest for Fanta: Brad is a great story-teller, and this is a good example of why. And I think there's some kind of message or point in there...
Modern:
Burn
8-Racks
Brewing:
Modern Haakon
Modern 20-Ones
Legacy Meathooks
Draft it on Cubetutor!
I hate the "overkind", or more accurately, the "pity" reactions. That obviously gets old really fast. I'm not overly sensitive; I'm pretty perceptive and can tell when it's just how someone is, and when it's a"oh, you poor thing" reaction.
Funny story time! I have a friend that started dating a girl that worked at a home repair store (like Home Depot or Lowe's). However, instead of simply introducing me to her (y'know, like normal people), we went to her work while she was on and had me wander around her department for awhile (I think lights. That was interesting). She eventually saw me and came over, smiling, and asked in that perky customer service tone if she could help me with anything. And I just went off on her. I was saying stuff like, "What, do I look like I need help? You just assume that because I'm a Little Person, I need help? You think I can't do anything myself?! 'Oh, look at the poor little man, he can't do anything on his own.'" Just when it seemed she was about to cry, my friend came up behind her and said to me, "Hey David." I smiled at him and waved. She looked at him, then back at me, then started beating the crap out of him. We all had good laugh about it later.
I didn't really have a question for you when I started typing this but thinking about it now, I do.
I like to think that each of our so-called faults in life can be seen as a strength in the right light, and when it is such, we display it (through some means) almost as a badge. Referencing back to that prior post I mentioned, I said something along the lines of being a depressed individual and didn't care who read (after all, it's on the internet now, I can't hide it, lol) it and took strength from it that I was able to identify more of myself in knowing that it is truly a part of who I am. My question is, how long did it take you for you to equate your dwarfism as a personal strength?
Oh, my username is the same on Xbox and Cockatrice, add me!
"For some of us, easier Magic is good Magic, but if you are one of those 'intelligent types,' feel free to play your Hive Mind mirrors. The rest of us are here for the fireworks." - Kent Ketter
Playing in Type 2...BGRJundHearted
I don't really view my condition as a strength; I don't think being a Dwarf, or even dealing with the fact that I'm a Dwarf, makes me "stronger" or better than anyone else, it's just part of who I am. Maybe I'm not reading you question right... Maybe instead of me going off on some unrelated tangent (which I surely could), you could clarify what exactly you mean? Or maybe I'm not thinking/seeing straight from too much Rock Band...
...I think. I was kinda sleepy when I typed the question, so it's a little foggy, thinking back on it now.
Oh, my username is the same on Xbox and Cockatrice, add me!
"For some of us, easier Magic is good Magic, but if you are one of those 'intelligent types,' feel free to play your Hive Mind mirrors. The rest of us are here for the fireworks." - Kent Ketter
Playing in Type 2...BGRJundHearted
I guess it wasn't until last year I really "accepted" myself as a Dwarf. At the same time, I'm still dealling with it. It think it's a bit more perpetual that other "hurdle" issues people deal with (though I don't know, others may say the same about their issue). Alot of other problems are more about self-acceptence, and while Dwarfism has that, there's also the social aspect. Anytime I meet new people, I'm going to have that to get over. Moving away from home is going to be brutal.
OK, here go my questions:
1. Do you agree on the thought that most (heterosexual) dwarves are (or like to appear as) sexual freaks? They might be more "normal" than most people about it, and some seem to get as much ...ehm... intercourse as anyone else, yet the public figure about dwarves in modern cultures is pretty much of a sex-obsessed bizarre person... what's your take on it? Is it because most people assume dwarves don't experience as much coitus as other people, thus vent their frustrations this way? Or is it because of the historical facetiousness that states that being a dwarf is not being normal? Any way, this sort of sickens me (the fact that dwarf comedians exploit themselves as sexual objects).
2. Do you attribute a higher intelligence to dwarfism? Or any other heightened part of dwarves as a by-product of possessing the gene?
3. Does your size actually help you attract more men? Would it be any different if you were heterosexual? You seem like a really cool guy.
4. Isn't Peter Dinklage one of the best actors of this generation?;) I definitely think he is. Do you think his wife deserves him?:p
Have fun answering these (as soon as a question becomes unfun, drop it).
Cheers!
-E
I like 4/4s for 7.
Remember when Verne Troyer's sex tape was leaked? TMZ apparently posted a 15 second, PG-13 rated clip of it, and in a matter of hours, it accumulated several hundred-thousand views before being taken down. I seriously doubt this was because all those people find Troyer attractive. It's because people are curious how "it" works with an LP. I think that's why some famous Dwarf actors/comedians exploit the sex angle; they know it will get people's attention.
However, I don't know how much you can blame them; if you look at any other comedian, sex is just as prevalent. Comedians of all shapes, colors, and sizes tell jokes about sex because that's what the audience wants. For example, Brad Williams has alot of jokes that revolve around various sexcapades and one-night-stands he's "had" (I'm sure he makes some of them up, just like all comedians), and alot of them are only funny because of his size. However, you see the same sort of thing done by other comics; think of all the Latino comedians who's entire basis for a set is about the fact that they're Latino. So it's not really fair singling Brad out, it's just that he's more noticable.
I don't think being a Dwarf makes you smarter by itself, but I know that sometimes people in a disadvantaged position will be more motivated individuals, thereby achieving greater things. For example, my legless friend said when he was younger, people telling him "you can't" just made him try harder. He did a season of little league baseball just because he was told he couldn't, and he wanted to prove he could. Not so much to others, but to himself. I think that's very common, including among Dwarfs.
Well, it certainly attracts attention. During a failed foray into online dating, anytime I told someone I was a Dwarf (since they apparently didn't bother reading my profile, which clearly stated it :-/), I usually got one of two reactions: they either lost any and all interest they might have had in me, or they got way too interest. They would start talking about SM/bondage stuff, and that just isn't my thing.
I also got alot of messages basically saying, "Hey, you're a m*****! We should have sex!" Classy, I know. This likely goes back to the sexual curiosity, and I'm sure this happens to regular-sized guys/girls of all preferences as well. So, yes, being a Dwarf has helped me attract men, but not in the way I want. I'm currently "off-the-market" (i.e. not looking) and I'm terrified what kind of dating follies I'll have once I start going to bars and alcohol enters the mix... *shutter* And I'm sure I'd have similar experiences/problems women. Oh, wait, I do...
Hell. Yes.
I think the main reason most people haven't heard of him is that he does have a tendency to appear in bad movies. Sure, The Station Agent is absolutely amazing, Prince Caspian was good (I liked it), and there are a few other "hidden gems" he did. But he did alot of bit parts in some indie films that just weren't that great. He is one of the few actors I can say that, even if I've hated the movie, I've always enjoyed his performance, no matter how small.
First paragraph was what I expected/thought all along, but the second one really answered my question is a satisfying way.
I also thought about that, and it makes all the sense in the world. Reminds me of Lost's John Locke:p ("don't tell me what I can't do!")
Oh... sorry. I also suspected that, and I guess sometimes it's fun, sometimes it's not.
Well, I saw him in Underdog and Penelope and he was just brilliant, and yes, perhaps the best part of both movies. He's just breathtaking and exceedingly devoted to his roles. He reminds me of those classic villains that just make you love them... those are rarely seen nowadays.
Again, thanks for answering! Awesome thread!
I like 4/4s for 7.
I'm very curious on these things....
Proud Owner of:
Extremeicon's Hamster-balled soul
Istanbul's Soul, Bidder of Myself
votan's Linux-loving Soul
grappler12's Poop-smithing Soul
Sir Blakely's Fencing Soul
CraZedMiKe's Soul Transferred Back at His Request
HAWKEYE 7's Calvin and Hobbes Loving Soul
Tanthalas' Greek Alliance Soul
Avatar of Kokusho's Island-Hating Soul
Salubrious' Rather-Belatedly Added Soul
DCI Advanced Organizer
They don't know, I'm not out yet. I did tell my bishop during our discussions about the prospect of me serving as mission. We tried working through it (you could say we tried to "cure" me), but it just didn't take. Until I feel there's something wrong, we can't fix it. The reason it isn't a real big issue yet is because I haven't "done anything" yet; I entertain some inappropriate thoughts (and, let's face it, who doesn't?), but have yet to act on them. We still meet every other month or so, just kind of checking up to see if anything has changed. (Sidenote: my family isn't LDS, only I am. I joined my Junior year of high school.)
Strangely enough, I'm not too concerned with any sort of backlash if/when I come out to them. There are a few families that I'm pretty close to, usually due to a child I'm friends with, and thus far they've been very supportive of me, even when my plans haven't fit with the Church exactly. I'd like to hope that won't change if they find out.
Yes, sometimes, but for the most part, I try not to think about it. I realize there will come a time that I will be forced to choose between the two. Until then, I'm just trying to figure things out, sort of "weigh my options." Not the greatest of plans, but hey, I sort of thrive on doing things in an "unconventional" manner.
You're ok. It's near-impossible to live in today's world and still be 100% faithful to your religion.
Yup, same reason. I've noticed you can't be a cool, open-minded person yet stand 100% on your faith in yout religion. It kinda goes against universality.
I say most of this stuff because one of my best friends of all is a Mormon, and he's really open-minded and cool (some would describe me with the same words:cool:). He does many things an extremely devout Mormon wouldn't do because he knows that in the big picture it matters little. It's just surprising how dedicated to his religion he is (he's a future missionary, in fact), yet how universal he acts concerning what Latter-Day Saints forbid... you can say he's my perfect equivalent (I'm a faithful Catholic yet many of my practices and even beliefs are more befitting of an agnostic. I guess you can say I'm like St. Augustine or many saints: someone who practices his religion yet sees things as he deems correct, thinking by himself rather than by someone else).
I like 4/4s for 7.
Good for him. I really wanted to serve a mission. There was some uncertainty about whether I'd be allowed to, but I went ahead and made it a moot issue by being gay.
I have a friend who just left for his mission earlier this month. I watched several R-rated movies with him; his favorite was Boondock Saints. He also, like me, had some more "questionable" music tastes (though not as bad as mine). Are these things discouraged by the church? Yes, Is he going to be a great missionary? Hells yeah. That kind of stuff only effects you as much as you let it. He never let any of the "inappropriate" stuff he saw/heard leak into his actual behavior, and I think that's the important part, why those standards are in place in the church.