39. (A)SEXUAL

so............it's obvious that in the world, there are all sorts of relationships.  hetero, bi, homo, and many combinations.  this film concentrates primarily on david, who founded AVEN (asexual visibility and education network).  some research shows that 1% of the population is asexual.....generally described to be those who don't experience sexual attraction.  they have relationships; some get married; some have had sexual experiences; some still have sex.  but, when they do, it seems to be as a compromise to the person they are romantically involved with.  can there be romance without sexual attraction?  we know there are many romances/marriages, relationships without sex, but those people often forego sex because of other issues.  asexuals just don't feel the urge; though, the point was made that many still masturbate, but for a physical reason, not emotional.  i think the bottom line is there are people who feel different and joining david's AVEN group let's them know they are not alone.  the point is also made that asexual is not the same as celibate.  the celibate make the choice not to engage in intercourse; the asexual just doesn't feel any desire to do so--no urge--no drive--no interest.  it's an interesting concept to think about..........what sort of relationship occurs without sexual intimacy.  even david raises the point, in a 2 year followup, that it seems sex might be the glue to the type of relationship that lasts; sex gives a relationship weight.