Julie,

I have a lot of male friends, but there are some differences among the friendships. As long as the guy is happily married and has a very strong moral and strong personality, my experience is that I can sustain a very good friendship with him. It gets rocky when a guy starts telling you about problems with his wife, his emotional needs, etc. Actually even then, as long as he is just telling you b/c he simply wants to know how we women feel, then that is okay. But if he seems to be wanting you to comfort him, then that could be dangerous.

I, too, am only here because of a friendship gone bad. Or, gone too far/disrespectful/threatening to my M. They almost always start out "innocent" until one or the other chooses to share details and thoughts and feelings they shouldn't. Again, I've been on both sides - one "friend" of mine was only interested in when the last time I passionately kissed my H was, and why I didn't have a better wedding ring, I should come over so he can cook for me, etc. and I ended the friendship, because I saw those flags and was offended that he couldn't respect my M & be happy for me that I was satisfied w/our M. The other friend of mine, who I had lunch with last week, does respect my M, does see/talk to my H, and doesn't cross any lines. If I don't want to let it go there, it's not going to. Plain & simple. Wish my H would have had the same strength/respect!!