Making friends is hard at my age. I value having good people in my life, and I love getting to know people, but I am way too self-conscious to initiate conversations with total strangers.

I have a basic white guy name, I'm not too tall or short, average build, buzz cut and a beard, and a nice smile (according to people who have told me so).

Anyway, here are some things about me that I feel are important to know...

I believe in having conversations over arguments. Disagreements are natural, but they don’t have to become fights. I have had more than enough shouting matches in my life to know they only make things worse.
I try to be a good listener. I can ramble at times, but I try not to focus on myself too much in any given conversation. I never assume anyone wants my opinion unless they ask for it.
I don't believe in negativity and I have no patience for cynicism. I’m prone to both and have worked hard to temper their influence on me, and I have been happier for it. I’m very protective of my peace, though, so chronic naysayers and negative people are kept at a distance.
I choose kindness as often as possible. There is never a need to be an asshole. Even when aggression may be justified, I choose kindness and compassion for my own sake. I value my happiness and mental health more than giving into the passion of the moment.
I struggle with depression and anxiety. Therapy, medication, and dedication to self-improvement have been invaluable for me, though. I still have my bad days, but how I respond to them has dramatically improved from even just a year ago. Patience and kindness for myself and others is the key to staying in good spirits for me.
I support artists and I despise critics. I believe all art has value and an audience, so you will never hear me say something sucks. If something doesn’t resonate with me, I’ll just say it’s not for me and move on. I admire artists who aren’t afraid to be weird and/or unconventional, even if I don’t care for the art they produce.
I love heavy metal. I understand it’s not everyone’s cup o’ tea, so I don’t force it on anybody. I like plenty of other kinds of music, as well, but metal will always be my favorite. If I tell you I’m going to a concert, it’s probably a metal show.
I love and work with animals. I adopted my cat Chani from my facility. She's a brat, but I adore her.
I like kids and have been told I’m good with them, but I elected to get a vasectomy because I have two genetic heart conditions, and I’m not comfortable rolling the dice on passing those on.
I vote, but I hate talking about politics.

That's me in a nutshell. Feel free to reach out if you think I sound like your kind of people.