In today's Asking Eric column, R. Eric Thomas responds to someone who is ready to distance themselves even further from a longtime friend. It had a religious content, and I took offense, because it poked fun at men and how they are worthless. – Stepping AwayDear Stepping Away: Respectfully, I think you might be looking for a reason to step away when, in reality, the reason is just that you’ve grown apart. It also allows for the both of you to care for each other, even as you step away from each other. (Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@askingeric.com or P.O.