What happens when you lose a good friend?

Good friends are the people that we choose to let in to the inner sanctum.

They make our lives sweeter during the good and difficult times. Friends are our supports and reality testers. We rely upon each other knowing that we’re safe to reveal our true selves.
A few nights ago a dear friend of mine died after a brief and horrible bout with cancer. We had deep bonds over the decades…though only intermittent contact. His death feels like a sucker punch.

“What I know is that each friend matters and adds something unique to our lives. Continuing to nourish these vital relationships for as long as we can makes every day a little better.”

Have you encountered a loss that shook you to the core?

As I scroll through our many experiences together I’m struck that our culture has no rituals in place for the loss of a friend. Rituals exist for those who mourn the loss of parents, partners, colleagues and God forbid children…but not for dear friends.

Losing a good friend…

The bond between friends can be life altering and has in fact been shown to be the key to health, happiness and longevity.

I’ve decided to light candles in his memory, say my prayers and share stories with a few people who knew him and others who simply have the capacity to listen generously.

Spending time with his family also feels healing—as we connect over our common love and loss. I’ve yet to journal but will… and in my heart I continue to honor the way in which he enriched my life.

Nothing is permanent.

What I know is that each friend matters and adds something unique to our lives. Continuing to nourish these vital relationships for as long as we can makes every day a little better.

How have you navigated through the loss of a dear friend?

As always I’d love to hear from you about your thoughts and comments below.

With love,
Randy