The quiet value is in the hundreds of posts that make below than average rewards, but have a loyal, focused following that generates really deep discussion and insightful comments.
You are so right that this feeling of loss is not just on hive, but also of former colleagues, former friends, and the people who flowed out of our social circles.
I still think of many people in those situations as well, and think of them fondly.
They're still around, I could probably find them if I tried, but would they want me to? Perhaps they feel the same way about you and me, too, those lost "souls"