I got various groups of friends, but one lot is a group of 4 straight guys and we've been friends for 12 odd years.

We all hug and kiss cheeks when we meet and part, and regularly confirm the love.

I have even said it to a couple of other (straight) friends over the years (but not many as it is a word that loses its value if not sincere) and it has never caused a problem.

I did have to explain a bit a one occasion the difference between loving them and being "in love" with them, and it was all good. They said that they didn't feel comfortable saying it themselves which was fine with me but if I ever said it they would reply with "Yeah, and you know as well?" so all good.

It's a shame that there is still such a stigma of dissaproval given to homo'type behaviour between straight men.

In european countries especially Spain, Italy and France, it is extremely common to see groupes of guys in public, walking together arm in arm, or holding each other close and hugging shoulders etc. No one bats an eyelid.

The same can not really be said for the U.K or U.S.

my two best friends and I say it pretty regularly...if it's genuine, there really shouldn't be an issue...
peoples petty hang ups about showing affection/emotion are silly and sometimes down right pathetic...

In my daily/weekly life I hear

Fathers and Sons say it ...
Brother to Brother
Grandfathers and Grandsons
Sons to Mothers
Brothers to sisters
Close male friends to myself and my family
Husbands to their wives and children


I hear " I love" you in a meaningful way in and around my life several times a day from males