They are, by default, prone to feeling insecure, overly territorial. In other words, they are still growing up. Not justifiably, anyway. Folk of the other sexual persuasion have a sensibility, a way of looking at life, an attitude toward things, you name it — a dynamic that friends of the same gender just do not have. Which, if you have the sense to avail yourself of it, makes you an appreciably well-rounded individual. So, you want in your social sphere some friends who use the other restroom at a restaurant.

It may be frowned upon to share yourself, emotionally, with said friend — to have conversations that are genuine and deep and filled with substance. Friendships create space in your heart for additional connections; they allow you to bond with others. But why give your sole attention to one person? Emotional unavailability is the key factor; a sense of absence within the relationship diminishes the trust that was once solidified. What happens to the rapport that was already established? What happens to the easygoing banter, to the laughter? Where does it all go?

As we get older, relationships between men and women become more complicated. Feelings can get involved. Side note.

Friendships can add good and positive influences to our lives and to our marriages. But be informed: opposite sex friendships will destroy your marriage if it goes to far, too close and unchecked. However, it can be a challenge to balance the intimacy of our marriages with the other important friendships in our lives. This is especially true if we have close friends of the opposite gender.