Couple of little updates... one seems like it might have a (predicted) sad ending, and one (hopefully) will end as a funny story.
So still sitting on receiving really nice responses from five of the 11 folks to whom I reached out this morning.
But I also have heard from two others... sort of.
One reached out this afternoon with a text, he got the email and, worrying that an email with an attachment was a phishing scheme. A reasonable question, to be sure. So I confirmed it was me... and then ... crickets.
This friend of mine... he was probably the one I was most concerned about. Not because of any right-wing positions. But because of his naivete. He's in his mid 40's, has never dated that we know of, goes to Disney with his mom and sometimes a brother several times a year... and doesn't really like to watch movies if they are too scary, and sex? Forget it.
He's a wonderful guy, he really is. I know what I wrote would make him sound kind of creepy... but he's the opposite. He's more, I don't know... childlike, I guess. He's just full of joy. He's a great person, well liked by all.
And as I have said to my wife on many occasions, I truly wonder if he will understand my situation at all.
The fact that he did not reply at all, concerns me. Not for me... I'm blessed with so much support it isn't about that. I just feel bad if this is really troubling to him. But I figure it's best to give him some space... at least until mid-week next week, before reaching out. So like I said... sad.
The (hopefully) funny story?
As mentioned, in the text of the email to which I attached the email, I try to assure folks that it's not a bot.. crack a few jokes, and wish them a nice long weekend.
Well, one friend who hadn't replied until tonight replied an hour ago and his reply was simple:
"Hey (male name) - Hope you and (my wife) have a great weekend too! Talk to you next week, my friend!"
I then sent him a follow up saying "hey, um... I think it's likely you didn't notice that my original email had an attachment? I'd appreciate if you checked that out when you get a sec..."
I'm guessing he's traveling for the long weekend so he just read it quickly while en route, and that's why he missed it and why I haven't heard back from the second email. And why I assume this will end as a funny story. Fingers crossed, anyway.