How did your life change after the death of a loved one?

[sadnesscomesagain]

My dearest friend was killed in a crash last week. I am devastated and now feel a shift in my life. I'm keen now to live life to the full and not get bogged down by things that used to bother me so much.
Has anyone else changed the way the feel/do things since loosing someone so precious?

I'm so sorry to hear about your friend

Lost my Mum in August and I feel like it's fundamentally changed me as a person. I can't put my finger on it, I don't have the words to explain, but it's a deep, foundation shifting alteration that I don't think there is any coming back from. I'm not the Fox I used to be

My husband died suddenly in 2020 – I was 36. It has changed me completely. I'm stronger and more resilient. I believe in myself and have confidence in my abilities. I'm less sensitive and much more easy-going. None of the changes happened overnight, and in many instances I didn't even notice them happening, but realised about six months ago how far I've come and how different I am.

Most importantly, I've learned that happiness and joy can be experienced alongside sadness, and one doesn't cancel out the other.

@peachgreen - your last sentence is something I will keep reading to get into my head. Thank you for that :)

You’re welcome. I’m sorry for the loss of your friend. Time does make it easier, I promise.

OP, you are in shock and likely will be for a long time.
I am 3 years on from this and I still don't believe it.
Life is so transient and I do my gratitudes every day that those around me are well.

Be kind to yourself. I cried a river. It poured out of me literally for a week, but i found myself often suddenly crying alone in the car when a wave of grief would almost engulf me.

Be kind to yourself and don't make any decisions. This is a long painful process and it takes a lot of time to wade through it. I still am.