I had a happy few years emailing a 15 yo I met on this board. We kept it anonymous, and entirely non-sexual. Sadly he faded out - but it was a good time - I like to think for both of us (well, he kept replying!); I don't think we should underestimate the contribution we may be able to make to an otherwise deeply miserable life. So it can be positive - just be aware of the risks and stay anonymous - if it starts to seem to go wrong, assume the worst - you are in the firing line.

See here - a GL site - for a discussion of truly anonymous email

http://www.glgarden.org/safemail/