Thanks you for your replies billieJ and Perna. I had about forgotten this thread.

I do try to be helpful to others. I live and work in a boarding house for women with all kinds of problems. So there are often occasions for me to at least listen and share my experience where it fits, although I am not a counsellor per se.

The idea of making friends with myself is somewhat intriguing. I certainly don't have any problem spending time alone, but I can't say that I take much of an interest in myself in the way you suggest Perna. I'll have to think about that one.