It's good that he's recognizing his feelings (depression) have to do with himself and not about you. (Many depressed people automatically assume it's the spouse's fault). I think you need to consider that he might not be ready for any relationship until he gets the depression under control. And it sounds to me like he's taking the right steps to do that. I think it sounds very positive. And the fact of you being a friend through all of this will mean a lot to him over time... regardless of what happens.
There is no arriving, ever. It is all a continual becoming.
