No worries, not overly personal—actually just finished answering it for someone else.

No, I don’t think so. In hindsight, and even in real time, I was considering the worth of those relationships. They were often inconsiderate and seldom supportive. All they ever wanted to do was unhealthy and vacuous things. I valued them because of how long they had endured for, but I never really felt like they were equally valued by the friends in question. I was always doing more for them—in word and action—than they were doing for me. (Though I was by no means a perfect friend myself.)

I’m optimistic about the situation because I consider this point in my life as something of an uncomfortable but necessary bridge. The unfortunate events that caused a schism between me and my friend group will ultimately be for the best, since it’ll open the door to me finding new and better friends, is what I tell myself.

I would be curious to hear your thoughts on this. Do you think all or most male friendships are to be found lacking? I’ve had some other commenters suggest as much.