World AIDS Day 1 December
While
we bemoan the tragedy of Paul Walker's death, let us also remember the
millions who continue to die of HIV/AIDS; many of whom we know, and may
our hearts go out to them while they are living... Not when they die.
Today is World AIDS Day, an opportunity to reflect on the grief and loss we have suffered over the innumerable lives this pandemic has stolen. Let us also celebrate with gratitude at the great strides that have been made in Antiretroviral Therapy; which have restored longevity, vitality and hope to the afflicted. The only disease left to cure is the most infectious of them all. The disease of our hearts, whose symptoms are apathy and discrimination; which says that those infected with HIV are doomed to die anyway so we don't have to care because it is not our problem, and 'they' are not part of us. Ignorance; that believes we are too beautiful, educated, smart (and in some cases, too white) to catch anything so we can continue having unprotected sex with no consequence. And the most debilitating trait: condemnation and resignation; the belief that HIV is a death sentence and fitting punishment to people who pursued a promiscuous lifestyle, and it probably won't ever be cured sooo *shrugs*.
But let me ask you; if you had AIDS, wouldn't you want a second chance and support, whether you felt you deserved them or not? Wouldn't you fight for a better life and acceptance? And what about the innocent child, spouse and rape victim who had no choice in acquiring the disease?
True compassion is not just "oh wow, shame." It is empathy, it is joining the struggle, it is striving for the well-being of others as you would your own.
It is now time to act, time to change and time to refute defeat. I challenge you to do so not just today- but habitually by:
1. Learning more about this disease if you are unfamiliar with the causes, symptoms and prognosis. It affects you because it affects those you love and the world you live in. Check up on the world's progress in the fight against AIDS. Awareness is key.
2. Caring for family, friends and people in your community who are infected and reassuring them that they are still loved and cherished. Spend quality time with them and engage in activities with them. Stop whispering and speak out constructively. love is contagious. Don't let it be your parents' responsibility or someone else's to help with their medical care just because you have other things you'd rather do with your money.
3. Purposefully ceasing sex outside marriage and getting tested for HIV. I must admit, this part requires a great deal of discipline and courage so seek encouragement. Build relationships with people that share this value. I cannot adequately emphasise the importance of getting tested! Ignorance (or oblivion) is most certainly not bliss; it is living in darkness, fear and chains.., but knowing your status gives you freedom. A positive result can still equate a fulfilling life with quality relationships- if you allow it. If, however, you have been fortunate enough not to contract this illness thus far, do not be foolish and keep trying to dodge bullets.. luck runs out on the craftiest of us.
We can be proactive in eradicating AIDS by prevention and promoting awareness. We all have a responsibility to not sit idly by.
Remember that death is inevitable, so what matters most is not the 'when' or the 'how', but the 'after'. What is most important is whom you believed while you lived. Let your sexual conduct and your posture towards those burdened by this disease reflect your stance against AIDS and STIs, your hope on this earth, and your faith in eternal life.
Today is World AIDS Day, an opportunity to reflect on the grief and loss we have suffered over the innumerable lives this pandemic has stolen. Let us also celebrate with gratitude at the great strides that have been made in Antiretroviral Therapy; which have restored longevity, vitality and hope to the afflicted. The only disease left to cure is the most infectious of them all. The disease of our hearts, whose symptoms are apathy and discrimination; which says that those infected with HIV are doomed to die anyway so we don't have to care because it is not our problem, and 'they' are not part of us. Ignorance; that believes we are too beautiful, educated, smart (and in some cases, too white) to catch anything so we can continue having unprotected sex with no consequence. And the most debilitating trait: condemnation and resignation; the belief that HIV is a death sentence and fitting punishment to people who pursued a promiscuous lifestyle, and it probably won't ever be cured sooo *shrugs*.
But let me ask you; if you had AIDS, wouldn't you want a second chance and support, whether you felt you deserved them or not? Wouldn't you fight for a better life and acceptance? And what about the innocent child, spouse and rape victim who had no choice in acquiring the disease?
True compassion is not just "oh wow, shame." It is empathy, it is joining the struggle, it is striving for the well-being of others as you would your own.
It is now time to act, time to change and time to refute defeat. I challenge you to do so not just today- but habitually by:
1. Learning more about this disease if you are unfamiliar with the causes, symptoms and prognosis. It affects you because it affects those you love and the world you live in. Check up on the world's progress in the fight against AIDS. Awareness is key.
2. Caring for family, friends and people in your community who are infected and reassuring them that they are still loved and cherished. Spend quality time with them and engage in activities with them. Stop whispering and speak out constructively. love is contagious. Don't let it be your parents' responsibility or someone else's to help with their medical care just because you have other things you'd rather do with your money.
3. Purposefully ceasing sex outside marriage and getting tested for HIV. I must admit, this part requires a great deal of discipline and courage so seek encouragement. Build relationships with people that share this value. I cannot adequately emphasise the importance of getting tested! Ignorance (or oblivion) is most certainly not bliss; it is living in darkness, fear and chains.., but knowing your status gives you freedom. A positive result can still equate a fulfilling life with quality relationships- if you allow it. If, however, you have been fortunate enough not to contract this illness thus far, do not be foolish and keep trying to dodge bullets.. luck runs out on the craftiest of us.
We can be proactive in eradicating AIDS by prevention and promoting awareness. We all have a responsibility to not sit idly by.
Remember that death is inevitable, so what matters most is not the 'when' or the 'how', but the 'after'. What is most important is whom you believed while you lived. Let your sexual conduct and your posture towards those burdened by this disease reflect your stance against AIDS and STIs, your hope on this earth, and your faith in eternal life.
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