This topic is about reflecting on the feelings of loss, gratitude, and emotional resilience, especially from the perspective of someone living with an ostomy. The originator shares a heartfelt message about the people who have influenced her life and the emotions she experiences.

- She feels the ongoing pain from the loss of several loved ones, particularly her son, who passed away 39 years ago. Each loss has taken a part of her.
- She is now facing a new kind of loss with the end of her 34-year marriage, including the years they dated.
- Ostomates often experience a similar sense of loss when they undergo surgery to remove organs, which can bring back feelings of grief.
- Despite these sorrows, she emphasizes that this is not a farewell but a moment to express gratitude for friendships, guidance, and the shared experiences within the community. With the holidays approaching, she encourages everyone to cherish life, family, and friends.

She also mentions her living daughter, whom she deeply loves and never wants to forget. She acknowledges feeling emotional but remains very grateful.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared:

1. Love is the key; let it guide you through difficult times.
2. Others who have lost children or marriages understand that the pain is lifelong, but sharing these experiences can help reduce feelings of isolation.
3. Stay strong, as grief can resurface unexpectedly, but resilience builds over time.
4. Creative outlets, like writing poetry, can help process deep-seated sorrow.
5. Philosophical views, such as those from Kahlil Gibran, remind us that life and death are intertwined; embracing life also means accepting loss.
6. The community offers unconditional support, encouraging the originator to share as much or as little as she wants and to continue participating for mutual encouragement.
7. Hold on through emotional challenges; brighter days will come, and those who endure become stronger.