On internet friendship
» Ambiguously Gendered , » My Life is an Open Blog
Pristine arrived as Felix.
Two people I’m very lucky to know. Felix standing next to my business partner and best friend Gordon.
We’ve known each other via the web for about seven years.
In the flesh Felix was as lovable, smart, affable, funny and charming as he’s always seemed.
Conversations born of forum exchanges, journal and weblog entries and emails continued readily from phosphor dots on a screen to an actual voice, gestures and physical presence.
His visit was a testimony that bond established via the web can be translated into meat space.
My crush on Felix I confessed several months ago. I wish I could split into two people: the man that loves Alex and one that would be right for Felix. Often I’ve wished I could embrace every unappreciated androgyne in an affirming hug.
Alex and I for the umpteenth time wondered why someone so delightful and worthy continues without a mate. What sane man wouldn’t want him?
It was good to actually meet my friend, there are very few people for whom I’ve honestly been able to feel friendship.
Comments
What nice and flattering words. Thanks! Well I must say, you are much more jovial in person than in print, although you’ve managed to be warm and gracious in our emails all these years. I was kinda sad that we didn’t get a picture of us, but your happiness at getting the picture of Gordon and I together more than made up for difference.
The pleasure was all mine, Richard.
Your friend, Felix
Posted by: Pristine Ann Gee | July 6, 2005 1:43 PM
…often I’ve wished I could embrace every unappreciated androgyne in an affirming hug…
I have felt the same way, at times. However, I get overwhelmed at the number of unhappy/unappreciated people that I know. You are one of the most genuinely kind people I know, and I’m very glad I happened across you on Livejournal.
Posted by: Devon | July 23, 2005 12:35 PM
“…wondered why someone so delightful and worthy continues without a mate. What sane man wouldn’t want him?”
I wonder the same thing about Pristine/ Felix. The only thing I come up with is a summary of her own theory, the “all-talk- no- action” state of internet dating on the one hand, and her specific standards on the other. Who can fault her for either? May we deserve to find our dreams evincing all the necessary courage.
Posted by: Olnova | September 18, 2005 1:43 PM
Now that I’ve met Felix/Pristine in person and know what a likeable person he/she is I’m only ever more baffled.
All the best human qualities are there.
I did suggest to Felix that perhaps he was being too picky. Can’t quite remember his response. But I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt.
I’d be so happy to find that he’d formed a permanent attachment.
Silly world.
Posted by: Richard | September 22, 2005 7:12 PM