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These trends are set in contrast to times when fraternal organizations provided a kind of social fabric that isn't the norm now. For men who are recognizing th

These trends are set in contrast to times when fraternal organizations provided a kind of social fabric that isn't the norm now. For men who are recognizing that social isolation is a long term risk in their lives and want to do something about it, I heartily recommend looking into these organizations. They're a mixed bag, like anything, but a bunch of guys who can hold anything together for decades should make anyone's list of options to investigate.

fromMars 7y ago
I think Church and religion can also fill a similar role. As someone who isn't active in any religion, I notice that coworkers who are tend to have a lot of social activities and presumably friends as a result of their participation.
Aloha 7y ago
As a gay male, I often have an additional wrinkle - in the Masonic orders, Eagles, Elks, or Moose Lodge, I feel I would be the odd man out in these situation.
- neverartful 7y ago
  I was in the Masons for a number of years and I was surprised to read your post. I'm quite sure that some of the Masons were gay. It didn't matter any. The only time that I could see someone feeling like the odd man out is where there are events for couples and you didn't feel comfortable bringing a guest. This would be more true for the Shriners than say the Blue Lodge (plain Masonic lodge). I recently became an Odd Fellow and I still feel the same with respect to whether a member is gay or not. The big difference with the Odd Fellows is that both men and women can be (and are) members. The Masonic orders are only for men. In any case, I wouldn't write them off completely due to your concern.
- motohagiography 7y ago
  To clarify, I also know a few gay men in lodges, sexuality isn't an issue there. Being recognized as a good guy by a bunch of other guys is no small feat. Someone who is trustworthy, kind, fair minded, honest, with only moderate conceits, good natured, charitable, and magnanimous is rare to begin with. I think if someone has these qualities, there is very, very little that will stand in their way.
neverartful 7y ago
Good points. It seems like Knights of Columbus is one of the strongest today. Their membership is predicated on being Catholic and probably having some level of involvement with the associated church parish.

fromMars 7y ago

I think Church and religion can also fill a similar role. As someone who isn't active in any religion, I notice that coworkers who are tend to have a lot of social activities and presumably friends as a result of their participation.

Aloha 7y ago

As a gay male, I often have an additional wrinkle - in the Masonic orders, Eagles, Elks, or Moose Lodge, I feel I would be the odd man out in these situation.

neverartful 7y ago
I was in the Masons for a number of years and I was surprised to read your post. I'm quite sure that some of the Masons were gay. It didn't matter any. The only time that I could see someone feeling like the odd man out is where there are events for couples and you didn't feel comfortable bringing a guest. This would be more true for the Shriners than say the Blue Lodge (plain Masonic lodge). I recently became an Odd Fellow and I still feel the same with respect to whether a member is gay or not. The big difference with the Odd Fellows is that both men and women can be (and are) members. The Masonic orders are only for men. In any case, I wouldn't write them off completely due to your concern.
motohagiography 7y ago
To clarify, I also know a few gay men in lodges, sexuality isn't an issue there. Being recognized as a good guy by a bunch of other guys is no small feat. Someone who is trustworthy, kind, fair minded, honest, with only moderate conceits, good natured, charitable, and magnanimous is rare to begin with. I think if someone has these qualities, there is very, very little that will stand in their way.

neverartful 7y ago

Good points. It seems like Knights of Columbus is one of the strongest today. Their membership is predicated on being Catholic and probably having some level of involvement with the associated church parish.