I started out as a child with severe social phobia, but right now, it's only mild to moderate. I am 52 years old, currently separated from my wife for 2 years, waiting for a divorce. I have two children. I try to increase my level of going out and meeting people. Over the past two years, I have made one friend at work that I hang out with sometimes after work, also one computer pen pal that I have been writing to maybe 3-4 times a month, plus I spend more time with my children. I started going to church again 6 months ago, and I go maybe twice a month. I also joined a computer dating service where I have been on dates with three women, though it didn't work out.
Trying to do more
- Thread starter RossMc
- Start date
Hey, sounds good man. Keep trying 
Thanks for the encouragement. Yes, part of doing more is trying to make more friends, but I have to push myself. Part of my problem is that I look and sound different from a lot of other people. I grew up in a fairly remote, backwater place and I have a strong regional accent that makes people stare. Of course, I live in the Northeast USA, the capital of phony toughness. I am tired of guys with soft hands who ride to the office on loud motorcycles, crushing handshakes, people that brag about growing up in Gloucester- Where I live it has the reputation of being the poor white capital- sort of the South Boston or Pawtucket of the North Shore.