What are meetings like?
Meetings are facilitated by slave wen and are designed to be a discussion and support group.
A typical meeting will begin with introductions of members and a brief statement of identification, i.e., "Hello, I am slave wen and I am one of the co-founders of this group"; or "Hello, I am Sir John and I am new to being an Owner".
After introductions we will review the topic of the month and open the floor to full, moderated discussion from both Masters and slaves for about 45 minutes.
We then break for body needs (food, water and bathroom) for about 10-15 minutes.
Upon reconvening, we meet in separate groups (one for Masters and one for slaves) for more discussion on the topic to encourage free discussion and promote an environment of support based on the experiences and ideas from others for about 45 minutes.
We break one more time for a brief period before coming together as a whole group once again and sharing the highlights of our discussions, new insights and perspectives, and deciding as a group on our next month's topic.
Once the meeting is concluded we commence with socializing and sharing in a group potluck meal, which is optional.
Group Member Agreements and Understandings
- Since we function as a support group, we are not a substitute for therapy; nor do we suppose or attempt to promote that there is only one way or answer in the rich multiplex that constitutes power-exchange relationships. We agree to attend with an open mind and a listening ear in order to learn from one another.
- We believe that it is in honest and open sharing that we can learn about ourselves and celebrate the richness available in our choice to experience Mastery and slavery. In support of this we abide by a strict confidentiality agreement, we agree to share things from our personal perspectives and experiences, and to respect the role of facilitator to moderate discussions when necessary. We ask that Masters allow slaves to share freely within the larger and smaller groups without fear or threat of reprisal or reprimand. This is not to indicate that individual protocols are not allowed for speech and behavior, but to encourage Masters to allow slaves the leeway to share freely in order to get the most benefit from this group.
- In order to promote full participation and provide a safe environment for sharing, we require all members to adhere to a strict confidentiality policy, where respect for one another's privacy is upheld by not sharing with others whom are not in attendance. This is not to say that personal insights and reactions can not be shared with a Master or slave not in attendance, but that all names, identifiers, and labels be left out, and that only the personal perspective of an individual can be shared. For instance, it would be inappropriate of me to say to my absent Master, "I did not like when Sir John said .....", but I could say, "I had a strong reaction to a statement from a Master about...."
- We ask that these meetings not be discussed with others who are not active participants in MAsT: Southern Maine.
You do not have to be in a relationship in order to attend our meetings. You should be interested in exploring yourself and your potential relationships with an emphasis on the dynamics of power-exchange.
Our members consist of those who are single slaves and Masters, those who have multiple Masters and/or slaves, those who are in monogamous Master/slave relationships, those who are married to others but have a Master/slave relationship with another, and the many other variations possible in relationships. We do not place judgment on the choices individuals make in their personal lives and respect the integrity of each individual to make the choices that are best suited to each person's life and situation.
What do people wear at meetings?
We encourage people to wear what they are most comfortable in. We do not have "uniforms" for Masters or slaves, and because we meet in the privacy of individual members' homes, we can more freely express ourselves and our relationship dynamics. In general, the dress is very casual, and some members will dress in leather vests, collars, and cuffs/chains, while others will choose to express gender affinities and identities, and still others will wear jeans and t-shirts. Sometimes our meetings are held in more public venues, as when we have guest speakers. At these times, we ask that people wear appropriate attire for public spaces.
Can I attend if I am just curious about Master/slave relationships?
Please feel free to attend if you are curious about what makes Master/slave relationships, and especially if you are currently in a power-based relationship. Meeting people who are living and exploring this rich dynamic may help you to assess whether pursuing a power-exchange relationship is right for you at this particular time. For those who might be curious and want to attend a meeting, please contact slave wen via the comments section to further explore your interests and determine whether attending a meeting is something you want to do.
Are there certain protocols I need to know?
Protocols at meetings are observed between those who are in relationship. If you attend alone, the only protocol we ask is that of common courtesy and politeness, no matter which end of the power spectrum you define yourself. This means that if you identify as a Master you should not expect every slave to bow to you and provide service, unless that slave is directed to do so by hys/hir Master. Also, if you identify as a slave, you are not required to bow or obey to any Master (with or without a slave) in attendance, except your own, and according to your own individually agreed-upon protocols. We ask that people "name" themselves, and we honor those names and honorifics in addressing each individual.
If you practice certain protocols, please do not expect others to adopt your values or rules unless you communicate the specifics and make direct requests, and if those requests are consensually honored between ALL parties. If you are a Master with slave(s) under speech restrictions during social times, please consider placing a sign or nametag that says "In Silence" on your slave(s) for the benefit of others in attendance.
