I'm new to this entire process. I happened to find this web site while on a search for loneliness, believe it or not. Then, I happened upon "Don't know how to be a friend". I read all the replies and came to this conclusion:

It appears you do have many friends. I've found that there are different types of friendships. I came to that conclusion for myself a long time ago. We don't always get back what we put into a relationship or what we expect. Sometimes we just expect too much. That's setting us up for failure, right there. Obviously, as human beings, we all have the need for loving, caring relationships in our lives. But, it's also human nature to "put up walls" around ourselves when caring hurts us to the core. Once bitten, twice shy, ya know? You say no one can get beyond the walls. You're right. No one can. You have to break the walls yourself from the inside. It’s your choice. Believe me, I've been there. "In a fortress deep and mighty...Where none can penetrate..."

Given all the advice and caring you've been shown here, I would have to say that it's probably worth trying. There are good, sincere and caring people out there and, basically, you can only be hurt if you allow it to happen. Life is just a life-long lesson and we never stop learning as long as we keep seeking the wisdom. So, try to apply the lessons you've learned in a positive way and don't let it stop you from finding the happiness that is waiting for you. You're worth it, despite what you may think.

Good Luck...