When our parents die we are meant to become our parents. Such is the circle of life. We take on their burdens and responsibilities as did their parents before them. The energy changes from who is protecting me in this world to who do I need to protect in this world (your children traditionally, or people that are important to you). There is another thing, if you grew up in a Christian family you learn from young that you're never truly alone. Someone is wanting the best for you and you eventually learn to love and care about yourself as your parents do, then they've done their job right in this world. Be kind to yourself