Yeah M I am extremely lucky that both of us are on the same journey. We have known each other since the 1st grade so it is very easy for us.
I have also played basketball with the same group of guys for around 15 years and we sit around and chat about stuff after we are done playing. One guy is a local judge in town, the other is doctor, one guy went through a D and online dating so he gives me advice as well (he also just got engaged). We have a group text list that we joke and kid around with each other when we are not playing and every now and then will meet up for drinks. Maybe once a quarter.
Since you enjoy rock climbing maybe there are local groups in town or through the gym that you could join? Maybe if you go at the same time every day the same guys will be there? When I started playing basketball with these guys it all happened because I went to the gym at 5 am one morning and I saw a group of guys playing. I walked into the gym, one of them came over and asked me if I played, I told him I did and the rest is history. You do have to put yourself out there a bit but I found that it was easy because it was something I enjoyed doing and I was interested in.
Even at the gym when I am lifting I see the same guys so in between sets I will make small talk etc. One guy his daughter was on my oldests soccer team so there is a connection, another guy has a daughter that goes to the same school as mine so that helped as well. Those guys also have friends at the gym so then they introduce you to them and it just kind of happens.
It does require you to open up though once you get comfortable. I did not know my best friend was going through marital issues and I have known him for over 35 years. I opened up to him about mine first and then it just took off from there. You would probably be shocked at the number of guys that are impacted but you know us males we don't like to talk about our feelings a lot. My point is that if you meet some people and open up you might be shocked at what you find and what friendships you could form. Just no that you might have to be the one to open up first.
Men need other men to be around and discuss men stuff with.
