One thing I’ve changed my mind about as I’ve grown is that one should always attend funerals. Earlier, I thought it didn’t matter much as the person has already passed away, and you missed your chance to interact with them for the last time anyway.

As I’ve grown up, I’ve realised only a small part of the attendance is about honouring the person who has passed away. More important is being there for the people who are heartbroken and left lonelier by their absence. When you’re young, you often don’t understand the value of relationships and how lonely people get as they age – losing even one of those relationships is world shattering. Just being around, doing what you can to help and pass time, means a lot.

Just do it. You will never regret it.

I’m still uncertain about always attending weddings and birthdays.