Now, more than ever, it seems as if the idea of consent has grown increasingly difficult. The lines have blurred, lines have been crossed, and those seeking consent are lost in a puddle of confusion. But, fear not! I have the solution for you. You've just clicked on the best article out there, don't you feel special? (No? Well, you should.)
You should feel special because YOU have the privilege of reading the "Be-All, End-All Guide To Consent... For Dummies." This easy-to-read guide will dot all of your "i's" and cross all of your "t's" when it comes to consent. No longer will you have to lay awake at night questioning whether or not you were actually given consent! No longer will you have to justify your gross actions— because there won't be any! Just read on and make sure to take notes.
Let's start with the basics. Here is a quick list of everything that is NOT consent.
1. Signs of flirtation.
2. Kissing.
3. Buying someone a meal and/or a drink.
4. Being in a relationship.
5. Wearing minimal clothing.
6. Going on a date.
7. The words: "No," "No thank you," or "I'm not in the mood."
Also note: consent cannot be given if someone is asleep, drunk, high, unconscious or dead. Ya know, the basics.
I know it can be an extensive list, and (quite honestly) it's a list that never really ends. To iron out any confusion on the list provided: sure, society may deem some of these things as normal, or consensual but alas, they are not. I know that the things on the list may seem confusing to some, and even wrong to others, but trust me— they're not. If you ever have any confusion about consent, my best advice to you would be to ask the person you are seeking consent from.
Which brings me to my next topic so beautifully. Here's what you've all been waiting for: a list of everything that IS consent.
1. Consent.
You may be asking yourself, "Wait, what?" But fear not, it's simpler than you think. Now, I know it may be a radical idea that the only thing that IS consent is actually consent, but it makes perfect sense. The only thing that will ever ensure consent, is getting consent itself.
Take note: there is only one way to ensure that you have that consent. You Must Ask. Verbally. This could include everything from a, "Is this ok?" to a, "Do you want to _____." Truthfully, any question along those lines will work. It really is that easy!
I hope you have enjoyed your time here today with a quick refresher on consent. I hope you had the chance to take some good notes because there really is nothing more important than getting consent before any physical act. So, with your newfound knowledge, go forth and enjoy your consensual relations!
