Elleise.......I am not sure that bereavement does completely go away in all cases, probably not in many. I think it depends on the nature and the depth of the relationship to begin with. I know in my heart that I will forever miss my loved one, at least a little bit, for as long as we exist in different realms.
I agree that the loss of a loved one, especially the loss of a deeply loved intimate partner, can and will bring about change and transformation. I don't see how it couldn't. After the deep despair passes, and there certainly is that, there is so much to think about and learn from.
In my case it has been over two years since my intimate partner passed on, and I feel like I am still transforming from the grief into something else, perhaps my true self for once in my life. Because of the loss I have a deeper sense of love, caring, and acceptance. That goes for how I feel towards others as well as how I feel towards myself. I have more defined priorities than I ever had, and the material world holds less value to me now. I have grown spiritually by leaps and bounds, having to out of necessity, if nothing else. I have had a lot of time to review my life and the value of my partner's life.
I am forever changed. It is hard to explain but I can say that I am far more sensitive to the pain of others, and far more sensitive in general to just about everything else that comes into my space. Being alone has allowed me time to go within myself to understand who I am and my purpose for being here. In order to survive I have had to assess every aspect of my life. I think I am a better person for having gone through this event, but some days it is still hard to deal with, I won't lie. The healing, growing, and transforming continues on with each passing day.