There’s no doubting it. That was the worst day of my life so far. The day my best friend died.
Racing across London in the back of a taxi, heading from my office to my friend’s flat to see for myself that my best friend had indeed died. It couldn’t be.
The living room door closed behind me. Two police officers had kindly let me in to pay my respects.
I knelt, tears streaming down my face. Reaching out, my shaking hand touched his stone cold forehead and I wept.
No-one saw it coming.
That was ten years ago (today). I decided to put pen to paper in his honour to share ten things I have learned since my best friend died.
I have chosen not to write exhaustively on each point, but rather to invite you to let your imagination wander as you think of those you love.
1. All life is precious, do not squander yours.
2. How much people actually care about you only becomes clear once you’re gone.
3. Grieving hurts and talking about it is better than bottling it up inside.
4. It’s not your fault they’re gone. Focus on what you shared together.
5. Remember, this too shall pass; life is like riding a rollercoaster.
6. Start and end each day with gratitude.
7. Tell them you love them, whilst you still can.
8. Do good by using your time to help and inspire other people.
9. Less thinking, more doing.
10. Do something you enjoy every single day.
To finish, allow me to share a quote I particularly draw comfort from at times like this
“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery; today is a gift […], which is why we call it the present.” – Bil Keane –
All of us deal with loss. What was difficult for me to absorb, was the fact me and my friend were only in our 30s.
There is just no telling when your number is up. All the more reason therefore to make use of the time you do have on this earth.
What else would you add to my list? What have you learned in the time since a loved one in your life passed away?
