I am not advocating 'pushing' the situation, nor taking undue advantage. We should always respect the boundaries, and comfort levels, of others.
However, I would let it be known that my "doors" were open, and if they chose to walk through, stepping over their own barriers, they were welcome to make that move.
Over my years, some have, and some haven't, taken those steps with me. With those who did, it usually proved to be a needed catharsis for them, and helped them come to grips with, and resolve, their own personal doubts and fears.
Once "the deed" was done, some returned to their Str8 ways, never to do it again, and some wanted to do some more 'exploring'.
In either case, their decisions were fine by me, and as a friend, I
objectively helped some reach their own conclusions if they wanted to talk about it, which I also encouraged.
In no case did I ever "push", but rather allowed those options to be available to them with trust and discretion.
I don't recall ever loosing any friends over it. If anything, it tended to draw us closer, and make our friendship stronger, even with those who only did "it" once.
Keep smilin'!!

Chaz
