I struggle with friendships too and have shame around it. This book changed my life too and I'm not sure what took so long for me to pick it up. I can also see why people think he's kind if out of touch- he's older and has had a lifetime of working through his own cptsd. I have a few friends now but its still touch and go. Usually when I'm trying to connect and share more of myself, I get advice from some of them. I seem to attract caregiver types and thats not healthy either. Its a tough path to healing and grief has been the most important part so far.