Theme #1: Dealing with loss can change someone
The idea that when you lose someone close to you, you change. Typically not for the better. in this story we see all sorts of loss. I myself have changed a little from loss in my family, so i see where the author is coming from. I also like how the author shows the change in such a drastic measure but keeping it true.
Theme #2: Friends are the key to finding oneself
The idea that being alone, and friendless, you don't really know who you are and what you stand for. But friends help you find yourself. Help you understand yourself and learn what you stand strongly on. They are very important to everyone. And i can relate to it very much so.