Gals and their platonic guy pals

Samantha Bonar’s column “Guy Pals Just Can’t Seem to Take The Hint” (Getting Personal, June 21) got me thinking. I agree that male friends who hope to use friendship as the key to open a woman’s bedroom door should be discarded. They can’t be trusted.

A gentleman and true friend learns early that the friendship will not progress into a closer relationship, and he accepts it.

However, I need to advise Ms. Bonar that any woman who wears a pendant inscribed “Curiouser and curiouser” over her chest is inviting attention.

PETER BOAM

San Pedro

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You should recognize that sexual stereotyping of men by women is no more attractive than the reverse. Because a guy doesn’t turn you on doesn’t mean that you can’t have a fun and respectful friendship.

Perhaps you should consider this and try a more thoughtful approach to creating a responsive and responsible relationship with males who offer you friendship. Don’t be opportunistic in your use of your unearned entitlements; don’t let your friends do all the work; take responsibility for setting the tone; give the relationship some structure.

Friendship makes a major contribution to the weft and warp of the tapestry of one’s life.

JANE BLOCK

Riverside

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I was entertained by this column. In my past, I had been that older “pervy guy,” preying on pretty young women for companionship. Bonar’s advice is well founded, and I wish women who attract “guy pals” nothing but safety and integrity.

However, isn’t there space in society for men who have found their marriage or relationship in a rough patch to take some solace or comfort from a friendship that might possibly result in intimacy?

KEVIN DAUPHINEE

Beverly Hills