Dear Amy >> I am a 60-year-old conservative Catholic male.

I believe that gender is determined by physiology, not psychology. I don’t believe transitioning to another gender is the answer to gender dysphoria. My views about transitioning and giving puberty-blocking drugs to youths are in line with my very conservative perspective.

My best friend “Martin’s” child (born male) is transitioning to female. She’s 25. Since I value Martin’s friendship, I refer to his child as “your daughter,” and I use his daughter’s new name and refer to her with female pronouns.

The only advice I have given is to get a second opinion before any surgery (which is advice I would give to everyone before any surgery).

Other than that, I provide Martin with emotional support, and I keep my mouth shut about my opinions.

Some of my church friends think that I should be preaching to Martin every day about the evils of being transgender. On the other hand, my liberal friends think I need to be more of an ally to the LGBTQ community.

What’s your view on how I should interact with my friend?

— MYOB in NJ

Dear MYOB >> My first reaction is to wonder why a man who signs his question “MYOB” is receiving the views of so many people regarding his relationship with his closest friend. You wish others would mind their own business, which also means that you should continue to mind yours.

“Martin’s” adult child is transitioning from male to female. It seems logical that this intrinsically personal journey should belong only to the person taking it. You can apply your theories regarding gender dysphoria, hormones, surgery and the like to your own life, should you ever choose to contemplate gender transition. Otherwise, MYOB, indeed.

I agree with you that interacting with Martin should continue to reflect your close friendship, without you feeling pressured to preach to him on your or your church’s various positions regarding gender.

Overall, I think the world would be a whole lot better with less preaching and condemning, and more allyship and acceptance.

Contact Amy Dickinson via email, askamy@amydickinson.com.