Petitions

by Catalina, 2002

I attended a presentation by Master Doug, owner of The Sanctuary of the Dark Angel, that included information on petitioning and a discussion on Leather Resumes presented by Mistress Kali at a function called IROP. I took this information and enhanced it by talking with others that might be considered 'elders' in this lifestyle and this is what I have come up with.

Just to get you started, let me tell you that a petition is very similar to a cover letter you would put with a resume. It is simply a part of a whole package. You can find tons of references on how to write business cover letters and resumes at your local library or on the Internet.

Within the lifestyle you would create a leather resume and include within it very similar things as you would a resume for a job. You alter the information to fit the leather lifestyle. For example, your education would include not only whatever degrees you may hold but also your education within the lifestyle. Your experience would most definitely be leather related. If you don't have experience, do not make it up. There are many out there who love to teach novices. Do include things you might like to learn and things of particular interest to you. Special skills you have mastered would also be of interest to a prospective partner/owner. Some examples are:cooking, teaching, nursing, second languages, web design, interior decorating, or maybe you have a talent for making your own toys. Also, community service is an important element. If you are new, I'm sure this wont be extensive but its something to start working on. Here, community service means, service to your leather community as well as your local community. Don't forget to offer references. Be sure you have contacted the people that you wish to use as a reference so they are not caught by surprise if your references are checked. You may use friends, members of local or online groups that know you or former partners. I would not include anyone you think has an axe to grind or would say something hurtful about you.

Since this is a specialized sort of resume, you should include any physical or mental restrictions you may have and include any medications you take regularly along with any allergies you have. Another thing to consider is finances. Do you intend to work? Are you willing or able to relocate? What about health insurance and retirement? Don't count on a relationship to be forever or expect someone to support you financially. At the end, if/when it comes, you will need to be able to support yourself if you have been in service on a 24/7 basis.

The petition itself is going to tell the ONE person or couple what your wishes and desires are. You will need to do your homework and know about them in advance before you can be sure you wish to petition them. Be clear in what you want and what you have to offer in return. If you are service-oriented, explain in clear, concise terms what you feel your strengths and weaknesses are. If you are just looking for a play partner, say so. I would also include a realistic estimate of how much time you have or wish to devote to this contract or relationship. Is it a live in, 24/7 position you desire? Perhaps you are free just one weekend a month. Most of all be sincere. Do not send out a petition to several different people like a form letter where you insert the name of the next person on your list.

Remember, this document could be used to start building a contract between you and your perspective partner. Don't be afraid to delineate areas that you are unwilling negotiate and things you consider to be needs. Be sure you know the difference between needs and wants too.

One other important point is, check your grammar and spelling. You will want to present a polished product to any prospective partner just as you would to an employer. Here you are making a first impression and you want it to be a good one.

Good luck and please feel free to write to me if you have more questions.

Sincerely,
Catalina
In service to her community