It’s so hard to “lose” a friend from that time of life no matter how the loss happens. I’ve never had a friendship that was equal to the friendships I cultivated during that time of my life. My best friend & I were inseparable since age 4. We were like sisters and spent nearly every night of our lives together. We had an argument in high school that resulted in about a one year “breakup” and that was such a tough year for me. Making up with her was such a relief. I felt like I could breathe again. Last August, she unexpectedly passed away. Seeing her and saying goodbye to her as she was on the ventilator was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. 43 years was not enough. I apologize if my emotional vomit hijacks your comment. It just reminded me of the importance of cultivating and maintaining friendships from that time. I think you should make an effort to find your friends. I’m sure you’re fondly tucked away in their memories as well.