Biromanticism vs. Bisexuality
Love’s Ever-Expanding Dictionary
Alright, for all you Word Nerds out there, you know language evolves faster than your Aunt Mildred’s questionable fashion choices. Remember when “on fleek” was the buzzword? Me neither.
But understanding terms like “biromantic” and “bisexual” is more than just keeping up with the cool kids. It’s about knowing the roadmap of human experience.
From A to Z in the LGBTQ+ Alphabet Soup
Pop quiz! What do the terms “sexual orientation” and “romantic orientation” have in common? If you guessed they both help describe how our heartstrings get tugged, ding ding ding! You’re right!
And if you’re as lost as Moses was in the desert, no worries; we got you. From the classic LGBTQ+ terms of yore to the snazzy new ones of today, our aim is to demystify, not to oversimplify.
After all, the more we know, the better equipped we are to love our neighbors as ourselves. And that, dear friends, is what it’s all about.
1. What is Biromanticism?
On the Intricacies of Being Biromantic
Ever felt that heart-fluttery, can’t-eat, can’t-sleep, reaching-for-the-stars, over-the-fence, World Series kind of stuff (thanks, It Takes Two)? That, my friend, is called a romantic attraction. And for those who identify as biromantic, this could be towards people of two genders.
Now, it’s key to remember that romantic attraction and sexual attraction aren’t twins. They’re more like cousins, twice removed on their mother’s side. Sometimes they hang out at the same family gatherings, sometimes they don’t. You can be all romantically swoony over someone without necessarily wanting to, you know, play footsie under the table.
A Full Spectrum of Heart Strings
There’s a saying in Proverbs 4:7, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” Now, stay with me. The Bible isn’t talking about romantic orientations here, but the message is crystal: Understanding is essential. So, let’s understand the myriad ways the human heart can flutter.
Beyond biromanticism, there’s a buffet of romantic orientations out there. Aromantic folks might not feel those romantic vibes at all, which honestly sounds peaceful on Valentine’s Day. Then there’s homoromantic, heteroromantic, and a whole list of ‘romantics’ that I won’t list out here. The takeaway? Humans are as varied as the flavors at an ice cream shop, and each one is valid, tasty, and worthy of that triple scoop.
Read: When Your Partner Does Not Equally Contribute
Navigating the Biromantic Seas
Setting sail into the waters of biromantic relationships, things can get a bit… choppy. But as Psalm 107:29 says, “He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.” No storm is too big for a bit of divine navigation.
First off, biromantic relationships have their dynamics just like any other. The heart wants what it wants, right? Some days it’s all picnics under the sun and shared Spotify playlists, and on others, it’s passive-aggressive notes about unwashed dishes.
And the misconceptions! Mercy, the misconceptions. “Are you just going through a phase?” “Isn’t that the same as bisexual?” No, Karen, and no. Biromantic means you can develop those deep, heart-in-your-throat feelings for individuals of two genders. It’s the romance novel, not the risqué scenes, if you catch my drift.
I once read a Buddhist quote that said, “In the sky, there is no distinction of east and west; people create distinctions out of their own minds and then believe them to be true.” And ain’t that the truth when it comes to understanding romantic orientations?
Everyone’s journey is personal, and it’s about time we embraced that. So next time you’re chatting over your Bible study or sipping chai lattes, let’s make an effort to understand and love a little harder. After all, isn’t that what it’s all about?
2. What is Bisexuality?
Diving into the B of LGBTQ+
First up on our enlightening journey is a trip down memory lane. Remember when “low-rise jeans” was a thing? Yeah, some things evolve for the better. Similarly, the definition of bisexuality has taken its own fashion-forward transformation over time. Historically, being bisexual meant you were attracted to both males and females. Fast-forward to the 21st century, and bisexuality expands beyond the gender binary. In short, it’s the potential for physical and/or emotional attraction to people of more than one gender. Think of it like the spectrum of ice cream flavors; some prefer chocolate, some vanilla, and then there are those that say, “Why not both?”
A Galaxy of Orientations
Our Creator made a vast universe, and the sexuality spectrum is no exception. Now, bisexuality is like that one constellation that’s super easy to spot, but don’t forget there’s a whole sky out there! On the one hand, you have pansexuality – the attraction to individuals regardless of their gender, sort of a love-is-love deal. Then there’s homosexuality, heterosexuality, and an array of other sexual orientations, each as valid as the next. Proverbs 20:12 says, “The hearing ear and the seeing eye, the Lord has made them both.” And just like He made our senses unique, our attractions are diverse too.
And can we talk about fluidity? Just like our favorite vacay spot on the beach, sexuality can be fluid for some folks. Maybe today they’re feeling the waves; maybe tomorrow, it’s the sand between their toes. You get the drift.
Read: When Your Married Boyfriend Promises to Leave His Wife
Busting the Bi-Myths
My dear friend, brace yourself. The myths about bisexuality are as many as those fish stories where the fish was “this big.” First off, biphobia and bi erasure? Not today, Satan. Some folks believe that bisexuality isn’t “real” or that it’s just a pit-stop on the way to a “final destination” of gay or straight. Remember that time Goliath doubted David, and well, we know how that turned out.
Addressing misconception number 547: No, bisexuality doesn’t mean you’re promiscuous or that you’re greedy. It’s not a “phase” or something to “get over.” As the Dhammapada says, “Hate is not conquered by hate; hate is conquered by love.” So, let’s swap the misconceptions for some good old-fashioned understanding and love.
And, if you’re still hanging on to that notion that being bisexual means you can’t be a good Christian, here’s a nugget: Jesus’ main message was love. So how about we focus on that and leave the judging for, well, The Judge?
3. Comparing Biromanticism and Bisexuality
Same Same but Different
Alright, whip out your bifocals because we’re about to dive deep into biromanticism and bisexuality. First thing, let’s pop that bubble. They’re not the same, although they do attend the same parties sometimes. Think of them as siblings; similar DNA but different personalities. While both orientations dance around the attraction to more than one gender, biromanticism waltzes around the romantic feels, and bisexuality is all about the salsa of sexual attraction. Picture someone jamming to love songs on their headphones (hello, biromantic) versus someone feeling the physical beat at a concert (that’s you, bisexuality).
And yes, it’s entirely possible to be biromantic without being bisexual, kind of like enjoying the smell of a bakery without craving every pastry inside. On the flip side, you can be bisexual and not biromantic, kind of like appreciating a painting but not wanting it in your living room.
Read: What Christianity Says About Oral Sex
Society’s Quirky Glasses
Looking through society’s quirky, sometimes foggy glasses, biromantic and bisexual individuals often appear blurred. Their challenges are like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube while riding a roller coaster. Remember the time the disciples freaked out on that stormy sea, and Jesus was like, “Peace, be still!”? That’s the calm many bi folks wish for amidst society’s raging storm of misconceptions.
It’s almost like society drafted its own Ten Commandments of Misconceptions. “Thou shall not be greedy; choose a side.” Or, “Thou shall not be confused; it’s just a phase.” It’s about time we revamped those tablets, don’t you think?
Raise a Toast to Bi-Beauty
A wise soul once said, “Diversity is the one true thing we all have in common.” And ain’t that the gospel truth? Whether you lean more towards the biromantic or bisexual end of the spectrum, there’s a tapestry of stories waiting to be told. Like Sarah, who found herself serenading (in her not-so-perfect pitch) both John and Jane, but only dreaming of a romantic walk under the stars with Jane.
We all need a village, a community, a posse, a tribe. Because, as Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one… For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.” Whether you identify as biromantic, bisexual, or just a curious onlooker, let’s be the kind of community that uplifts, supports, and throws confetti on our shared and unique experiences. After all, love in its many forms is worth celebrating. Cheers to that! 🥂
tl;dr
Remember that one time you tried to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions? Relationships and understanding orientations can feel a bit like that – puzzling and maybe a smidge frustrating.
But just as the Apostle Paul said, “For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face” (1 Corinthians 13:12). There’s a rich beauty in every kind of love, and understanding the nuances, like figuring out that confounded IKEA step, is the game-changer.
If there’s one thing we’ve learned from both the Gospel and our journey through biromantic and bisexual lanes, it’s this: Love thy neighbor. Period. No ifs, ands, or buts. Whether they’re biromantic, bisexual, or just passionate about pineapple pizza.
The Bhagavad Gita offers some wisdom, saying, “We are all one family in the world.” So, let’s act like it.
Respect? Inclusivity? Understanding? They’re not just buzzwords, they’re our marching orders. Onward to a world where everyone gets their slice of respect and understanding, pineapple toppings and all!
God bless, Amen.
Read: High Maintenance Women
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can someone be both biromantic and bisexual?
Diving deep into the sea of love and attraction, it’s possible for someone to be both biromantic and bisexual. It’s like enjoying both chocolate chip cookies and brownies – they satisfy different cravings but are both delightful.
Being biromantic means someone can have romantic feelings towards individuals of more than one gender, while bisexuality is about experiencing sexual attraction to those genders. So, yes, someone can have their cookie and eat the brownie too!
Is bisexuality just a phase?
Oh, the age-old “it’s just a phase” debate. Let’s set the record straight: while some individuals may go through phases of questioning or exploring their sexuality, labeling bisexuality as a mere “phase” is like saying your teen punk rock phase defines your entire musical taste.
For many, bisexuality is a lifelong and consistent orientation. Just like your undying love for 90’s hits (come on, we all have them!).
How can I support a friend or family member who identifies as biromantic or bisexual?
Supporting a loved one is like being their cheerleader without the pom-poms. Listen actively without making assumptions. Educate yourself on the challenges faced by the bi community, and maybe share a cuppa (or a pint) while chatting.
It’s all about creating a safe space, free from judgment, where they feel understood and accepted. Remember, it’s not about having all the answers, but being there through all the questions.
Are biromantic and bisexual people more likely to cheat in relationships?
Oh, snap! This myth again? Let’s squash it: Being biromantic or bisexual doesn’t make someone more prone to infidelity. Cheating is a choice, not an orientation side effect.
Assuming someone’s faithfulness based on their orientation is like judging someone’s cooking skills by the color of their apron. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t add up!
How does one determine if they’re biromantic, bisexual, or both?
Oh, the twists and turns of personal journeys! Discovering one’s orientation is a deeply personal experience, like finding the right genre in a sea of Netflix shows. It involves introspection, understanding feelings, and maybe chatting with trusted friends or professionals.
Remember, it’s not about fitting a label perfectly but finding out what feels right for you.
How do biromantic and bisexual orientations fit within the broader LGBTQ+ community?
Biromantic and bisexual folks are like the vibrant colors in a rainbow tapestry that is the LGBTQ+ community. They bring unique experiences, challenges, and perspectives.
While they’ve faced some invisibility issues or felt sandwiched between gay and straight communities, their contributions and voices are invaluable in the fight for equality and understanding.
What resources are available for people exploring their biromantic or bisexual identities?
Looking for a guide in this exploration? You’re in luck! There’s a treasure trove of resources out there. From books like “Bi Lives: Bisexual Women Tell Their Stories” to organizations like the Bisexual Resource Center.
Websites, support groups, podcasts – there’s a universe waiting for you! Because, as they say, when one door closes, a browser window opens. Dive in!
