There's a difference between saying it's impermissible in Islam, and my own opinions. What you need to do is put Allah's words first and not sheikh or my own opinion.
Is my opinion above Allah's to you? Seems like it!
No of course not sister. I am just saying be consistent. You said men and women can be friends, so I provided you with the logical corollary of your statement. Btw, I already know your answer but I just wanted to demonstrate that I think you don't really believe the statement that men and women can be friends.
I know what the religion says and it is very clear. Allah (SWT) says don't even go near fornication/adultery (Zina). Friendships between the genders and hanging out alone is approaching that sin.
Trust me when I say guys don't have self control, most men who you think are your "friends" would probably sleep with you if you offered. That's just the way we are as men. Only men with low-testosterone levels or gays could be friends with women and not feel sexually attracted to them in some way.