I am not necessarily a "gay guy" that you can point out by physical characteristics as defined by the stereotype of the "typical gay guy" that is portrayed in entertainment venues. This is an issue for me, because that is often all that the straight community has as a point of reference.

A cherished friendship has developed with a "straight guy" from my first day of training here at GE. My friend is respected by other straight men as a “real man” … aha.  He could be the poster guy for open-mindedness and sincerity. He looks past stereotypes and apprehensions that others may have about his sexuality. He equally acknowledges his cherished friendship with a gay man.

I would love to write or somehow get a voice out to show that a gay man and a straight man (both of the same generation) can be great friends. Sexuality or other tensions between us are not even an issue. And other men can achieve this if they look beyond stereotypes.

In this type of friendship, respect of one’s homosexuality and heterosexuality is crucial. When respected by both people, two men can truly be supportive of each other as men and as people.

A friendship between 2 men of different sexual orientations is very healthy and should be encouraged.  I know that frequently one of a gay man’s greatest fears is rejection by straight men.  So I would love to help with this issue in any way possible -- even if only by this e-mail. I am a blessed and better person because of this friendship.