Couple month back, a guy reached out to me after my comment under a game's discussion. One comment paved a way to a bonding experience that we keep building gradually. We share views on some aspects of life and have similar interests about spending quality time. He was brave and honest enough to share his personal insecurities and struggles with me, and I help him as much as I can with my direct communication and rationale.

Recently, I encouraged him to try an exceptional gaming series called Yakuza, and he was very explicit in his thanks for my deed. It's a good feeling to have, knowing that your input can influence someone's life, even for a tiny bit. Today I received a letter from him filled with emotions and extensive thanks for being present at this moment in his life. It's been a long time since someone was so emotionally open to me, especially on the internet.

My friendships online never took this direction, as all my friends and acquaintances were made IRL. I'm just speechless at this point of what my answer should be. Emotionally inept, online? I guess so. My mind just wanders, how people like these appear in my life, and stay for more than just a weekend.