Is this on a first date? If you said this to me?
"I am married. I have children. I am polyamorous. My spouse is also polyamorous.
Both I and my spouse would be respectful to any new relationship that forms between you and I.
I am ___. My spouse is ____. I do not know your orientation. If you became interested in my spouse -- I am open/ok with that. In short -- I am open to a "V" model or a "triad." I have no particular preferences, just telling you what I am open to."
I would say...
"Cool. I am married. I have kids. I am poly. My spouse is monoamorous and poly friendly.
My orientation happens to be bi, but I am not seeking anything with your spouse.
Tell me what
open models you are NOT up for. I am open to ___. I am not up for ____. I am flexible on ___.
Respect -- what kind of behavior does that mean to you? Respectful behavior to me means ____."
I would figure this is all "get to know each other" calibration stuff. People have to be on the same page in order to be compatible. I wouldn't assume anything. I also don't feel any particular pressure. I like straightforward and figure I can always ask you equally straightforward for clarification. Like "When you say X, does that means you will expect ____ from me?"
I think it is your job to put what you mean out there as clear as possible when you broadcast your communication. I think it is my job to do active listening, interpret the communication and ask questions if I need clarifying. I cannot
mind reader you. Same the other way when it is my turn to talk and you turn to listen.
At the end I would tell you "Ok, thanks! I enjoyed getting to know more about you."
And my second sentence would be either...
- It sounds promising. Let's make another date and talk some more.
- It doesn't sound like it is quite what I'm after. I'm sorry. I hope you find someone more compatible on your next date. Good luck!
But that's me. Everyone is different in their dating style.
Rather than trying to adjust your message to suit everyone in the world -- just have it so it suits YOU and it is your natural way of going.
It will attract those that find it appealing and it won't attract those that don't.
That's kind of the point to dating. To find and sort the compatible ones from incompatible ones. Not ever person you have a date with will be a long haul runner. It's ok.
Galagirl