After a period of personal tragedy, I found not only had my life changed forever, but many of the people I thought of as lifelong friends drifted off.
Thankfully I had a wide circle of acquaintances through various hobbies and interests, who really stepped up for me. I found myself invited to all sorts of events that weren't really my thing but better than being miserable alone at home. So I resolved never to turn down an invitation for 12 months (except for unavoidable clashes).
I've had the best year. I've been to a International sports event with a friend from school (30 years ago) who lives overseas, I've run a half marathon in a European capital, I've been to see lots of local bands, I've hiked 120 miles in a week, I've been gocarting, trampolining and wild water swimming, been on a number of UK weekends away, a food festival, more sports and music events.
I've also made a point of inviting others to do things with me, including some I don't know very well. They don't always say yes, but when they do it's always been a success, no horror stories.
I've also become very comfortable with doing things by myself, meals out, theatre trips, holidays.
Best of all I have met and become friends with some lovely people and met lots of interesting people In passing.
Yesterday I agreed to go to a music festival with a man I really don't know very well. Possibly rash, but I'm so proud of the way I've come through this adversity, put myself right out of my comfort zone and am really making the most of what could have been (is) a horrible situation.
Just in case anyone mentions it, yes I am very fortunate in that I don't need to think too hard about the money. I have a good job and modest living expenses so plenty of disposable income to live this life.