The only thing that's changed within me is that I've become more aware of my own mortality. Going further than that is just... too big; I don't like to think too deeply about things that are beyond my control, since that only makes me depressed, angry and scared, and I can't change them anyway. So I focus on the things that ARE within my reach and let the people in charge of the rest worry over whatever lies beyond it.
I try to keep in closer contact with my family and my girlfriend now. I try to worry less over what other people may think of me, what might go wrong, etc., and simply focus on 1)doing the big things I want to do before I die and 2)enjoying all the little things that make me happy. I can't give blood (I'm 12 pounds under the minimum weight), but I WILL be donating bottled water to help the people who need it. I want to help others while I still can.
At any moment, without any warning, you could be killed, maimed, or otherwise rendered incapable of giving help to others, doing the things you love, or enjoying the love of the people who mean the most to you. Time and life are just too precious to waste on useless anger and hatred. Try to seek happiness while you still can.
Love to all,
*Rochelle.