Going through an illness and then death of a close friend has changed my attitudes to friendship enormously.

In this quote, Jane Green reflects on how experiencing the illness and eventual death of a close friend deeply impacted her perspective on friendship. She suggests that such a profound experience of loss shifted her understanding and appreciation of what true friendship means. The challenges of witnessing a loved one go through suffering and ultimately pass away can lead to a reevaluation of relationships and what it means to be there for someone.

The phrase "changed my attitudes to friendship enormously" highlights how the experience of loss altered Green’s approach to relationships. Often, facing the mortality of a close friend brings clarity about the fragility of life and the importance of nurturing meaningful connections. Green may now place greater value on the depth, authenticity, and supportiveness of her friendships, understanding that time and emotional investment are precious.

The impact of death on Green’s view of friendship also suggests that it can bring a new level of vulnerability and awareness about the significance of being present for others. The death of a friend can lead to an emotional awakening, reminding individuals not to take their relationships for granted and to appreciate the support they receive from friends. This change in attitude may encourage more open, empathetic, and genuine connections.

Ultimately, Green’s words express how personal experiences with illness and loss can fundamentally shift one’s perspective on friendship. Her reflection underscores the idea that life’s most difficult moments can prompt a deeper understanding of relationships and their true value, reshaping how we connect with and prioritize the people who matter most to us.