condolences. pain remains but it eases over time

I lost my best friend and lover over 17 years ago. The pain never goes away, but it does get better. There are a lot of songs that cause echoes of her in my mind. I can actually listen to some of them with crying. Hang in there, we all know how it felt when it happened to us and can understand a bit of what you feel. Take it easy on yourself. The one lesson I learned is not to rush the recovery process.

So very sorry for your loss. We all know how you are feeling.its been 14 months since I lost my hubby it’s the worst. We are here for you

Very sorry for your loss. It's been 9 months since I lost Richard. This group of people understand what you're going thru. Very glad you found us too. We are here for you.

It also more or less guaranteed that the mourner would not make many major life decisions for at least a year (particularly, rebound relationships). Which is also a pretty good idea in most cases, about most things.

Yes welcome - although we are sorry for your loss and that this is the group that you are joining because of the loss.
It is an experience that we share. In my case is my wife taken by cancer after 43+ years of marriage just over 4 years ago. And I find, like you, that there are those things that bring back the grief of her passing.
I wonder about an outward symbol of mourning. Maybe - but would a year be long enough. As each of us has a somewhat different grieving period. Two years is the standard but that has not been my experience. And what would be acceptable by society. Probably the year. It is interesting to think about.

Welcome. I hope your journey gets easier.

I liked the black armbands and think they should make a comeback - the ones worn on the upper arm. [en.wikipedia.org]

So easy to signal people what's going on - without changing your entire wardrobe - and that they should treat you a bit more gently - because grief can leave you ragged.

Welcome. So sorry you had to join us. You are with people who understand.