How sexual exploitation of men and boys is overlooked and dismissed

[Inkfreak]

1. When I was 18 I began a relationship with a 32 year old woman.

My first one that went beyond a few dates. It was at the time incredibly exciting and terrifying. I believed it was what I'd dreamed of in a way. It was a highly dysfunctional affair. Lots of booze and love but little to no substance. I should say I was in the Army at the time and had begun drinking before her, but it was taken up a few notches with her. I was easy manipulated and the highs and lows lasted about 6 months. I deployed, she moved on rather quickly and I was crushed.

It had a profound effect on future relationships that I did not grasp until I met my wife. I am lucky she held on to me through the rough patches as I matured. It's a weird thing to talk about because most people assume it's just what a young man dreams of. It's hard to admit I was terrified a lot of times because of my inexperience with women & relationships. I'd do whatever she said because I looked at her as the "adult" so to speak. The one in charge because she knew the world. I was a shy bookworm who just joined the Army. I don't hate her or anything. I just wish I'd have found someone closer to my age and maturity.