I miss having close girlfriends nearby. I still haven’t formed any really close relationships with any females since I moved to Vancouver two years ago. It’s hard to come by those great friendships. Takes time I guess.

To be honest, male friendships worked for me because I’m lazy. In my experience, I find that women take a lot more maintenance to keep up the friendship. They require more phone calls, more one-on-one talks, and more face time than my guy friends to keep them at a level where things are easy and comfortable.

With work comes reward and, as I get older, I realize that the more effort I put into a friendship, the more I get out of it. I am finding that lately I am constantly being surprised and overwhelmed with what is being given back to me from these women. It is very nourishing and I feel an enormous amount of love for each of them (you included, of course). I only hope that now that I am consciously aware of how fortunate I am to have these relationships, that I can continue to grow them and keep them.

I agree that mental health is just as important as physical health. I think it is excellent (and very brave) that you are going to participate in this panel.

Not prying or even expecting and answer really, it is just curious

Your (and his) openness continually inspire and give confidence to many many people all across the country (and world, for that matter). I hope you’re proud, and I hope it continues