Living with a stoma can be a journey filled with mixed emotions, as described by someone who shared their experience through a poem. This poem captures the mental back-and-forth that many people feel when they have a stoma. Here’s a look at the different aspects of living with a stoma and some helpful advice from others who understand these feelings.

- On the positive side, having a stoma can be life-saving. It can significantly reduce pain and other health issues, making it a choice that many would make again without hesitation.

- On the downside, there are daily challenges like dealing with leaks, odors, and the mess that can come with it. These hassles, along with the emotional weight, can sometimes lead to feelings of resentment.

This mix of liking and disliking the stoma at the same time creates what is called "oscillating perspectives," where one's feelings swing back and forth, leading to a kind of mental conflict known as cognitive dissonance.

As people get older, like the person who shared their poem and is nearing 80, they often find themselves reflecting more on past decisions and what the future holds. Writing down these thoughts, especially in the form of poetry, can help acknowledge these conflicting feelings and then move forward.

Here are some insights and advice from others who have experienced similar feelings:

1. It's normal to have fluctuating feelings about a stoma or even about aging. Accepting that these feelings can change over time can help reduce anxiety.

2. Journaling or engaging in creative writing, such as poetry, can be a helpful way to process and understand these mixed emotions.

3. Being part of supportive communities can offer valuable perspectives and remind you that you are not alone in your experiences.