Sometimes, there are times in life nothing can prepare us for. I wish no one had to ever experience these moments. Losing a friend before they get a chance to live a full life is one of the absolute worst things in the world. No one really likes to think about death and the possibility it can affect our lives, but unfortunately, we can't always be so lucky to avoid it. Sometimes we tragically lose friends too soon.
I was 16 when I lost one of my best friends. Lyndsey and her boyfriend Kyle were killed in a car accident that left our community shaking. We lost two incredible young lives way too soon. I had known Lyndsey since I was in sixth grade, and to know her was to love her. She was so beautiful and one of the kindest people I have ever known. She made everyone smile and feel welcome. Losing her unexpectedly at such a young age was absolutely devastating. One day we were joking around in biology and taking silly photos on Photo Booth when we had extra class time, then the next day, she was gone. The unexpected loss was a stab in the gut. It completely changed me. The week following her death was the darkest time of my life. There really isn't a way to properly describe it, and I hope no one has to go through it.
The pain of losing a friend eases with time, but it is a pain that never really goes away. There will always be certain things that will remind you of them, and one day those reminders will turn from tears to a smile. Milestones will pass and you'll wish your friend was there to experience them, and yes, it will be sad. It's OK to be sad and mourn for as long as you need. There's no set mourning period, so take all the time you need.
Losing a friend is so hard and it hurts like hell. Sometimes there just aren't adequate words to describe it. It doesn't matter if you grew up with them or have just been friends for a semester; the pain is still there. But just know you are never alone. There are others grieving the loss of your friend, so be sure to band together for support and strength. Mourning alone is a big burden to bear, and the community I received after Lyndsey's death saved me.
I'm sorry to those who have lost a friend too soon. I wish none of us would have had to go through it. But you can always keep the memory of your friend alive in your heart and with your actions. Do something every year in honor of them. Support a cause they loved and donate in their name. And be there for a friend if they lose someone they love.
If you've lost a friend recently, hang in there and try your best to stay positive. The days are dark now, but I promise it will get easier. Your friend loved you just as much as you loved them. Stay strong.
