Gay person as a friend

I am not gay but I always thought it would be nice to have gay friends. I feel that they are more open minded, accepting, loving, and affectionate. It would be like having a female friend but in the body of a man. Doesn't that just make for a better relationship? In my culture, most men can't be close with each other because we are so homophobic, but gay friends would have no problem being close. Whenever, I see gay people at the mall, I want to chat with them but I am way too shy to ever do that.Also, I feel like I could offer them a lot of support when they feel like society doesn't accept them.What do you think? What are your thoughts? Has anyone else felt the same way?