June 27 of each year has been set aside to encourage people to get an HIV test and know their HIV status. This day is observed as National HIV Testing Day. Contracting HIV is as preventable as not developing Diabetes. Knowing the facts and making correct conscious life choices can make the difference of living without either disease.
I want to stress the fact that HIV knows no barriers and is not immune to any Human Being, despite their marital status, age, social economic status, race, religion or political affiliate. I know individuals who have been married for a number of years then one or both have broken their vowels and engaged in an affair, which led to unprotected sex. I also know individuals living with HIV/AIDS because of this. I know single status individuals that engage in unprotected sex with many individuals. I also know of individuals living with HIV/AIDS because of this. I know if one engages in risky behavior, HIV will sneak in without any warning. I also know individuals living with HIV/AIDS because of this. I know individuals that use needles to shoot dope into their veins and then share needles with others. I also know individuals that are living with HIV/AIDS because of this. I know individuals that didn’t know the risk factors or transmission routes years earlier and are now living with HIV/AIDS because of this. I know individuals that are HIV positive and don’t know how to keep from infecting others. I also know individuals living with HIV/AIDS because of this. I know individuals that thought the virus wouldn’t or couldn’t infect or affect them; they are now living with HIV/AIDS because of this. I know HIV/AIDS destroys the body, mind and soul if allowed to run rampant. I also knew individuals that died of AIDS because of this.
The list could go on forever. Me giving you examples of people that could be infected and not know it, people that are infected and do not know what to do not to infect others; and people that know they are at risk and are afraid to get tested and so forth. I encourage anyone reading this to take the test and know your status. Regardless if you are married, had an HIV test a year or longer ago or feel you do not qualify as anyone that would be at risk, it is time to take the test. If you see someone you know in the examples above, it is time to encourage them to take the test also. Take the test today or any day regardless of your social economic status, opinion of the disease or attitude towards your own immunity. You could be at risk for HIV to enter your life, because of this.
Free HIV testing is taking place around the country today. Contact your local Health Department, AIDS Service Organization, your doctor, clergy or friend to find out where testing is being performed in your area. You can also go to www.hivtest.org for a listing of test sites. Believe it or not, once you test and know your results, you will be glad you did, I was.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
The Doctor's Office
Have you ever really noticed what reading material and information is at a doctor’s office? Yesterday I was at the gynecological office and took notice of what reading material I could grab to occupy my mind and help pass time while waiting to hear my name called. My observation concluded there were magazines for women and possibly a few directed towards men. You could get an up to date report on the hottest Hollywood celebrities from People Magazine or ensure Wall Street is handling your financial affairs correctly by browsing through Business Week. You could snag a good recipe for dinner from Ladies Home Journal or get the tip of the week on how to handle your overall health from Prevention Magazine. Needless to say, a countless number of other magazines illustrated towards one disease or another scattered the tables. Of course the little folks we call our children had plenty to entertain themselves with books, building blocks and other little folk. We can’t leave out the endless pharmaceutical pamphlets available that were telling you how dire it is to reduce your blood pressure, cholesterol and stress levels. We were bombarded with fitness flyers emphasizing the importance of exercise and how vital it is for the heart, muscles and mental state, especially as we age. The counter was covered with brochure racks holding page after page of contraceptive information and birthing options. The wall unit display located in the hallway leading to the restroom held endless postcard advertisements from cancer chemotherapy medications to how to clear up zits. There were ample advertisements for wrinkle injections and the concern of keeping our youthful appearance. There was an abundance of information on any disease, ailment or dysfunction your body could possibly ever experience in one’s lifetime much less many lifetimes. There seemed to be something for everyone, well, almost everyone.
Knowledge surrounded me yet I noticed there was an important and extremely vital bit of information missing in the sea of paper arranged around the room. Not a brochure, postcard advertisement nor a magazine was to be seen anywhere in the waiting area, restroom, display racks nor even in the examining rooms that pertained to HIV/AIDS. I scanned every square foot area of that office searching for HIV prevention information, behavior risk factor explanations, local AIDS Service Organization (ASO’s) contact numbers; and or transmission route information to no avail. I was shocked NOT to find ANYTHING regarding HIV or AIDS and especially in a GYN’S. Of all the places one should be able to gather crucial information on any disease should be at your doctors office.
Doctors should be on the front line defense and eager to educate his/her patients on the subject of HIV/AIDS and be the ones to initiate it. If nothing else, they should have the information available for a patient to take with them if they are too embarrassed or ashamed to address the subject. As it has been proven, HIV knows no barriers and does not discriminate against anyone regardless of age, race, religion, gender or political affiliate.
Being a woman living with AIDS, it is ever more important to me to help prevent another human being from becoming infected with this horrific virus; especially my fellow sisters, girlfriends, colleagues and associates. America as a whole should be ashamed that in the year of 2008, 25+ years after the virus was discovered, that we are still NOT openly talking about this disease. We are still NOT educating our youth and communities, we are still NOT concerned of the spread of the disease in our own front yards and we are still NOT able to tear down the prejudices of our own judgments towards people living with this disease or the disease itself.
Next time you are at your family doctors office, or any doctor’s office, please take note on what information you see laying around. I would be curious to hear from you as to what you find. I would also love to know of a doctor’s office or clinic that was not specialized in HIV/AIDS that did offer written material to their patients on the disease of HIV/AIDS.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Knowledge surrounded me yet I noticed there was an important and extremely vital bit of information missing in the sea of paper arranged around the room. Not a brochure, postcard advertisement nor a magazine was to be seen anywhere in the waiting area, restroom, display racks nor even in the examining rooms that pertained to HIV/AIDS. I scanned every square foot area of that office searching for HIV prevention information, behavior risk factor explanations, local AIDS Service Organization (ASO’s) contact numbers; and or transmission route information to no avail. I was shocked NOT to find ANYTHING regarding HIV or AIDS and especially in a GYN’S. Of all the places one should be able to gather crucial information on any disease should be at your doctors office.
Doctors should be on the front line defense and eager to educate his/her patients on the subject of HIV/AIDS and be the ones to initiate it. If nothing else, they should have the information available for a patient to take with them if they are too embarrassed or ashamed to address the subject. As it has been proven, HIV knows no barriers and does not discriminate against anyone regardless of age, race, religion, gender or political affiliate.
Being a woman living with AIDS, it is ever more important to me to help prevent another human being from becoming infected with this horrific virus; especially my fellow sisters, girlfriends, colleagues and associates. America as a whole should be ashamed that in the year of 2008, 25+ years after the virus was discovered, that we are still NOT openly talking about this disease. We are still NOT educating our youth and communities, we are still NOT concerned of the spread of the disease in our own front yards and we are still NOT able to tear down the prejudices of our own judgments towards people living with this disease or the disease itself.
Next time you are at your family doctors office, or any doctor’s office, please take note on what information you see laying around. I would be curious to hear from you as to what you find. I would also love to know of a doctor’s office or clinic that was not specialized in HIV/AIDS that did offer written material to their patients on the disease of HIV/AIDS.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
People ~ Positive & Negative
People come and go from our lives constantly. People are flowing in and out of our lives through the telephone, in person, snail mail, email, instant messenger and numberous other ways. Have you ever wondered why some people connect with you at a time that you seemingly need their kind of energies, experience or knowledge at a specific time in your life and it was a positive connection? Or possibly quiet the opposite. Have you encountered people that from the minute you are introduced to them, no matter when in your life, they just seem to bring with them a negativity to everything?
I have encountered many people in my life from both categories. I have a wonderful circle of support and love from family and friends which enriches my life. These are the people I keep close and share life stories with, experience holidays and special occasions with and the ones I cherish for the people they are and the acceptance of the human I am to them. Then there is the other group of people that have connected with my life that no matter how hard I try to be positive with them, it only leads to a drain of negative events and emotions.
Negative people remind me of HIV and the devastation it causes to the mind and body. Negative people are the ones that are always putting others down for not being as knowledgeable as they may be. They are the ones that are rigid in their thinking and hold on to past hurts and heartaches as if they were tangible items and worth a pot of gold. Negative people are the ones that do not grow in any area of their lives and continue to live in the ruts they created without any motivation to do anything different but want different results. Well, actually, they not only are the negative ones they are also the stupid ones. The list goes on and on as to how I see negative thinking people.
Positive people are the ones that are excited the sun rose that day, grateful for the food they have even if it isn't what they desired at the time. Positive people make things happen, have a cheerful spirit about them and are willing to try something new and have an uplifted attitude while pursuing it. Positive people live with the misfortunes that come their way and make the best of it. This is a small example of how I see positive thinking people.
This is what I am doing with HIV. I could sit around and be negative and feel sorry for myself while dwelling on the side effects of the medications, the shortened lifespan and the other slue of health issues that arise from having a chronic illness. Not to mention the social stigma associated with HIV. I could but I choose not to dwell on the negative. I have taken a stance to make a negative into a positive and that is how I live my life with HIV. I get up every morning and make the choice to have a good attitude, to be grateful, to be productive and to live for the day.
Yesterday one of the negatives from my past tried to creep back into my life. As sad as it is I can not allow this to happen. A part of me would like to reconnect with this person for there was some positive at some of the times throughout the years we were friends. Yet when I reflect back on the overall picture, the nagative scenes flash in my mind and my body reacts with tension. I find myself gritting my teeth and holding the phone with a mighty strength, white knuckled. A simple phone call regarding this person had a negative reaction to my body. I was able to be aware of that and know it was not a good sign and the best thing I could do was not respond to the persons request of my return phone call.
Sometimes we have to love people from a distance. Oh believe me, there is still a fondness for this friend. I do smile when I think of the fun times when we would play backgammon in the park, play cards around the kitchen table, ride around town inmy car chatting, shopping and so forth. But, this friend is not healthy for me and especially now since I have HIV. I do not want to play the games any longer that come along with hanging around a negative person. One negative in my life is enough and I can't distance myself from HIV any further than what I already have. Negative people I can.
I have encountered many people in my life from both categories. I have a wonderful circle of support and love from family and friends which enriches my life. These are the people I keep close and share life stories with, experience holidays and special occasions with and the ones I cherish for the people they are and the acceptance of the human I am to them. Then there is the other group of people that have connected with my life that no matter how hard I try to be positive with them, it only leads to a drain of negative events and emotions.
Negative people remind me of HIV and the devastation it causes to the mind and body. Negative people are the ones that are always putting others down for not being as knowledgeable as they may be. They are the ones that are rigid in their thinking and hold on to past hurts and heartaches as if they were tangible items and worth a pot of gold. Negative people are the ones that do not grow in any area of their lives and continue to live in the ruts they created without any motivation to do anything different but want different results. Well, actually, they not only are the negative ones they are also the stupid ones. The list goes on and on as to how I see negative thinking people.
Positive people are the ones that are excited the sun rose that day, grateful for the food they have even if it isn't what they desired at the time. Positive people make things happen, have a cheerful spirit about them and are willing to try something new and have an uplifted attitude while pursuing it. Positive people live with the misfortunes that come their way and make the best of it. This is a small example of how I see positive thinking people.
This is what I am doing with HIV. I could sit around and be negative and feel sorry for myself while dwelling on the side effects of the medications, the shortened lifespan and the other slue of health issues that arise from having a chronic illness. Not to mention the social stigma associated with HIV. I could but I choose not to dwell on the negative. I have taken a stance to make a negative into a positive and that is how I live my life with HIV. I get up every morning and make the choice to have a good attitude, to be grateful, to be productive and to live for the day.
Yesterday one of the negatives from my past tried to creep back into my life. As sad as it is I can not allow this to happen. A part of me would like to reconnect with this person for there was some positive at some of the times throughout the years we were friends. Yet when I reflect back on the overall picture, the nagative scenes flash in my mind and my body reacts with tension. I find myself gritting my teeth and holding the phone with a mighty strength, white knuckled. A simple phone call regarding this person had a negative reaction to my body. I was able to be aware of that and know it was not a good sign and the best thing I could do was not respond to the persons request of my return phone call.
Sometimes we have to love people from a distance. Oh believe me, there is still a fondness for this friend. I do smile when I think of the fun times when we would play backgammon in the park, play cards around the kitchen table, ride around town inmy car chatting, shopping and so forth. But, this friend is not healthy for me and especially now since I have HIV. I do not want to play the games any longer that come along with hanging around a negative person. One negative in my life is enough and I can't distance myself from HIV any further than what I already have. Negative people I can.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Today I Will
Today I will walk the path my soul guides me,
I will breathe in the air and smell the nature it holds.
The wind will caress my face with a gentle breeze
and I will allow the sun to enrich my body with warmth.
I will trust in my connection with God,
today, tomorrow and always, I will.
I will breathe in the air and smell the nature it holds.
The wind will caress my face with a gentle breeze
and I will allow the sun to enrich my body with warmth.
I will trust in my connection with God,
today, tomorrow and always, I will.
Monday, June 16, 2008
My Love For You
My Love for you grows along the way,
planted years ago on an October day.
When you held my hand as if to say,
Will you be my friend let’s go play.
We spent time together on the bay,
Picking up sea shells along the way.
Holding hands, playing, enjoying the day,
Watching the glorious sunset of God's array.
We laughed and cried and have had to pay,
For the times that forever seemed so gray.
Time has passed and My Love continues today,
Years after that October day.
The years come and go, I continue to pray,
You will kneel beside me in prayer one day.
Allowing God to join us and be gay,
As My Love For You Grows Along the Way.
Christine 10-25-2005
planted years ago on an October day.
When you held my hand as if to say,
Will you be my friend let’s go play.
We spent time together on the bay,
Picking up sea shells along the way.
Holding hands, playing, enjoying the day,
Watching the glorious sunset of God's array.
We laughed and cried and have had to pay,
For the times that forever seemed so gray.
Time has passed and My Love continues today,
Years after that October day.
The years come and go, I continue to pray,
You will kneel beside me in prayer one day.
Allowing God to join us and be gay,
As My Love For You Grows Along the Way.
Christine 10-25-2005
Tips On How To Advocate
How Can I Advocate Politically and or Personally?
Find out about your elected representatives. Do you know who your senators and congressmen are?
Do you know their position on key health care issues or other issues? These are important questions to ask yourself when you think about your role in the political process. Get to know your legislators and their views on the issues.
Register to vote.
It is always important to remember to keep your voter registration current.
Vote in every election. As the recent presidential elections approach, every vote is important. Once you have updated your voter registration, vote in every election. If you are unable to go to the polls on Election Day, request an absentee ballot.
Volunteer your time.One of the best ways to get involved in issues that are important to you is to volunteer your time. Nonprofit agencies, organizations and legislators rely on volunteers. You can work in their offices, assist with projects and show support.
Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. It is always important to let your views be known. Writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper heightens the visibility of issues important to you and can enhance the acceptance of an issue. If you do not want to disclose your name, ask an organization to allow you to write the letter under their identity and with their approval.
Invite your legislator and others to visit your agency or organization. If you have attended any type of lobby day, you have visited your legislator in his or her office. Send an invitation to your legislators, local business groups and other parties of interest to visit your agency so they can see what you do. Legislators take a great interest in their constituents and what affects them. Local agencies can collaborate with like agencies but only if they are aware of them. After the visit send them a photo of their day at your facility.
Offer up your ideas.There are many challenges to HIV/AIDS care delivery and it is important that this information is shared with Congress. Who better to share the information than someone who lives with or is affected by the disease? Don't be afraid to share your ideas and suggestions with your legislators.
Advocate for What You Believe: Build Your Own Strategy
A good advocacy strategy starts with putting some time into planning. Here are some steps to help you define your issue and goal, find out who has the power to make the change you think is needed and what motivates them, as well as some things to consider when you build your strategy. You may want to use get some paper and a pen to make notes as you go.
Find out about your elected representatives. Do you know who your senators and congressmen are?
Do you know their position on key health care issues or other issues? These are important questions to ask yourself when you think about your role in the political process. Get to know your legislators and their views on the issues.
Register to vote.
It is always important to remember to keep your voter registration current.
Vote in every election. As the recent presidential elections approach, every vote is important. Once you have updated your voter registration, vote in every election. If you are unable to go to the polls on Election Day, request an absentee ballot.
Volunteer your time.One of the best ways to get involved in issues that are important to you is to volunteer your time. Nonprofit agencies, organizations and legislators rely on volunteers. You can work in their offices, assist with projects and show support.
Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. It is always important to let your views be known. Writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper heightens the visibility of issues important to you and can enhance the acceptance of an issue. If you do not want to disclose your name, ask an organization to allow you to write the letter under their identity and with their approval.
Invite your legislator and others to visit your agency or organization. If you have attended any type of lobby day, you have visited your legislator in his or her office. Send an invitation to your legislators, local business groups and other parties of interest to visit your agency so they can see what you do. Legislators take a great interest in their constituents and what affects them. Local agencies can collaborate with like agencies but only if they are aware of them. After the visit send them a photo of their day at your facility.
Offer up your ideas.There are many challenges to HIV/AIDS care delivery and it is important that this information is shared with Congress. Who better to share the information than someone who lives with or is affected by the disease? Don't be afraid to share your ideas and suggestions with your legislators.
Advocate for What You Believe: Build Your Own Strategy
A good advocacy strategy starts with putting some time into planning. Here are some steps to help you define your issue and goal, find out who has the power to make the change you think is needed and what motivates them, as well as some things to consider when you build your strategy. You may want to use get some paper and a pen to make notes as you go.
What’s important to you and why? Before you can come up with a message or make a good argument for your position, you need to be able to identify what issue is most important to you and why you care about that issue. Keep in mind that people are drawn to stories. The more you are able to present the issue in a concise way and to show why the issue matters, the more effective you will be at convincing others that the issue is important.
Here are some questions to help you figure this out:
- What HIV-related or other issue(s) do you feel most strongly about?
- What is it about that issue that you believe must be changed?
- What would be different if this issue was fixed?
- How would things be better?
- Why is this issue important to you?
- Here are some questions to help you figure this out:
- Why do I feel this issue(s) needs attention?
- Why do I feel strongly about it and believe it must be changed?
- Why would things be better if it were changed?
Tips to Remember
Be yourself. Whatever size, color, religion, gender, race, or sexual orientation. Don’t make apologies for yourself. Believe in the righteousness of your cause. Believe that fear and stigma helps nobody.
Understand that you’re beautiful. Understand that people who criticize you can’t take that away from you. Understand that a lot of people are hateful and ignorant and they don’t reflect on you, and they shouldn’t affect you. Let go of fear. Don’t let fear keep you from living your life the way you want to. Don’t be afraid to speak up and speak out. Don’t be afraid to order the respect you deserve. Don’t be afraid to use the words HIV or AIDS. Don’t be silent. Don’t allow yourself to be marginalized. Challenge others to get tested, get the facts, get educated and be safe . Don’t be afraid to be the strong woman and human being you are.
A Stress Release
Fortunately I live in Texas where the weather permits getting outside on most days. Well, that is unless it is a day like today where the heat index is hoovering around 106 degrees. Otherwise and most days, especially early mornings, it is pleasant.
Dealing with stress for me means grabbing my garden tools, a bottle of water and heading outside to my herb, vegetable and flower garden. Getting my hands in the rich soil of Mother Earth is the most calming effect for me to deal with the side effects of HIV medication. It creates a connection with me and God. Cutting the beautiful fresh flowers, pulling weeds, watering and admiring the new birth in the plants help remind me to nurture myself. Being in my garden brings me closer to my soul enabling me to focus on "being" and "my purpose" and usually bringing a sense of calm and clarity. Being stressed is not Who I AM nor Who I Want To Be so my garden brings me back to my authentic self.
Some days I am not able to retreat to my garden. Those are the days I prompt myself to exercise more, read an inspiring book, write in my journal or now my blog. or indulge in play with the dog, work on my photo scrap books or anything that I know is calming to me, even if I need to stand on the front porch and scream first. There, I feel better just thinking about doing that.
Dealing with stress for me means grabbing my garden tools, a bottle of water and heading outside to my herb, vegetable and flower garden. Getting my hands in the rich soil of Mother Earth is the most calming effect for me to deal with the side effects of HIV medication. It creates a connection with me and God. Cutting the beautiful fresh flowers, pulling weeds, watering and admiring the new birth in the plants help remind me to nurture myself. Being in my garden brings me closer to my soul enabling me to focus on "being" and "my purpose" and usually bringing a sense of calm and clarity. Being stressed is not Who I AM nor Who I Want To Be so my garden brings me back to my authentic self.
Some days I am not able to retreat to my garden. Those are the days I prompt myself to exercise more, read an inspiring book, write in my journal or now my blog. or indulge in play with the dog, work on my photo scrap books or anything that I know is calming to me, even if I need to stand on the front porch and scream first. There, I feel better just thinking about doing that.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Sunrise on the Caribbean
Every time I look at the picture posted on my blog, it takes me back to that morning last fall when I was on the cruise ship (compliments of my boyfriend), sipping coffee, breathing in the fresh morning sea air, listening to the waves as the ship cut through the brilliant blue waters of the Caribbean.
My favorite time of day, when the sun is just starting to consider peeking over the horizon, the temperatures drop a few degrees, the ship is spic and span from the earlier morning swabbing of the decks, cleansing of the pools in preparation of another fun filled day on the ship, at sea, sailing off to our next exotic island port.
Watching the sunrise brings with it another new day of hope from God, a grand sign that all is anew on the earth, in our minds and in our hearts, yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come, but at the moment, we have the sunrise to raise us up, to warm our souls and spark that flame to rejoice in the opportunity that we have been given another day to be the best we can be, to reach out to someone other than ourselves and touch someones heart with a random act of kindness whether spoken in words or shown in action. It is, for me, the time of day I make the conscience decision to make it a grand day or not and after the breath taking colors, spectacular array of light and the power that radiates from each ray, how can I not choose for anything less than grand?
Take in a sunrise, you might be surprised at the experience your soul feels from watching it unfold and come alive. It gives me the power to tell HIV it does not have control for that day and hopefully it will you too.
My favorite time of day, when the sun is just starting to consider peeking over the horizon, the temperatures drop a few degrees, the ship is spic and span from the earlier morning swabbing of the decks, cleansing of the pools in preparation of another fun filled day on the ship, at sea, sailing off to our next exotic island port.
Watching the sunrise brings with it another new day of hope from God, a grand sign that all is anew on the earth, in our minds and in our hearts, yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come, but at the moment, we have the sunrise to raise us up, to warm our souls and spark that flame to rejoice in the opportunity that we have been given another day to be the best we can be, to reach out to someone other than ourselves and touch someones heart with a random act of kindness whether spoken in words or shown in action. It is, for me, the time of day I make the conscience decision to make it a grand day or not and after the breath taking colors, spectacular array of light and the power that radiates from each ray, how can I not choose for anything less than grand?
Take in a sunrise, you might be surprised at the experience your soul feels from watching it unfold and come alive. It gives me the power to tell HIV it does not have control for that day and hopefully it will you too.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Enlightened Perspective from Andy Rooney
I remember when 60 Minutes was the Sunday evening news program my parents watched when I was a little girl. I loved watching it despite the fact I was too young to really understand the politics and other issues they reported on. The one thing I do remember and could understand were two things, I liked watching Barbara Walters and Andy Rooney. Somehow, I connected with both personalities and I was hooked. Throughout the years, I still watch the news program and still love Andy Rooney. Here are a few things I learned from Andy and life as I grew up. Maybe you can find a few items listed that can inspire growth in you too. ~ Christine
ENLIGHTENED PERSPECTIVE
If you will take the time to read these. I promise you'll come away with an enlightened perspective. The subjects covered affect us all on a daily basis: They're written by Andy Rooney , a man who has the gift of sayingso much with so few words. Enjoy.......
I've learned.... That the best classroom in the world is at thef eet of an elderly person.
I've learned.... That when you're in love, it shows.
I've learned.... That just one person saying to me, 'You've mademy day!' makes my day.
I've learned.... That having a child fall asleep in your arms isone of the most peaceful feelings in the world.
I've learned.... That being kind is more important than beingright.
I've learned. .. That you should never say no to a gift from achild.
I've learned.... That I can always pray for someone when I don'thave the strength to help him in some other way.
I've learned.... That no matter how serious your life requiresyou to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.
I've learned.... That sometimes all a person needs is a hand tohold and a heart to understand.
I've learned.... That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as anadult.
I've learned.... That life is like a roll of toilet paper. Thecloser it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
I've learned.... That we should be glad God doesn't give useverything we ask for. I've learned.... That money doesn't buy class.
I've learned.... That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
I've learned... That under everyone's hard shell is someone whowants to be appreciated and loved.
I've learned.... That to ignore the facts does not change thefacts.
I've learned.... That when you plan to get even with someone, youare only letting that person continue to hurt you.
I've learned.... That love, not time, heals all wounds.
I've learned.... That the easiest way for me to grow as a personis to surround myself with people smarter than I am.
I've learned.... That everyone you meet deserves to be greetedwith a smile.
I've learned.... That no one is perfect until you fall in lovewith them. I've learned... That life is tough, but I'm tougher.
I've learned.... That opportunities are never lost; someone willtake the ones you miss.
I've learned.... That when you harbor bitterness, happiness willdock elsewhere.
I've learned.... That I wish I could have told my Mom that I loveher one more time before she passed away.
I've learned.... That one should keep his words both soft andtender, because tomorrow he may have to eat them.
I've learned.... That a smile is an inexpensive way to improveyour looks.
I've learned.... That when your newly born grandchild holds yourlittle finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.
I've learned.... That everyone wants to live on top of themountain,but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.
I've learned .... That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.
ENLIGHTENED PERSPECTIVE
If you will take the time to read these. I promise you'll come away with an enlightened perspective. The subjects covered affect us all on a daily basis: They're written by Andy Rooney , a man who has the gift of sayingso much with so few words. Enjoy.......
I've learned.... That the best classroom in the world is at thef eet of an elderly person.
I've learned.... That when you're in love, it shows.
I've learned.... That just one person saying to me, 'You've mademy day!' makes my day.
I've learned.... That having a child fall asleep in your arms isone of the most peaceful feelings in the world.
I've learned.... That being kind is more important than beingright.
I've learned. .. That you should never say no to a gift from achild.
I've learned.... That I can always pray for someone when I don'thave the strength to help him in some other way.
I've learned.... That no matter how serious your life requiresyou to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.
I've learned.... That sometimes all a person needs is a hand tohold and a heart to understand.
I've learned.... That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as anadult.
I've learned.... That life is like a roll of toilet paper. Thecloser it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
I've learned.... That we should be glad God doesn't give useverything we ask for. I've learned.... That money doesn't buy class.
I've learned.... That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
I've learned... That under everyone's hard shell is someone whowants to be appreciated and loved.
I've learned.... That to ignore the facts does not change thefacts.
I've learned.... That when you plan to get even with someone, youare only letting that person continue to hurt you.
I've learned.... That love, not time, heals all wounds.
I've learned.... That the easiest way for me to grow as a personis to surround myself with people smarter than I am.
I've learned.... That everyone you meet deserves to be greetedwith a smile.
I've learned.... That no one is perfect until you fall in lovewith them. I've learned... That life is tough, but I'm tougher.
I've learned.... That opportunities are never lost; someone willtake the ones you miss.
I've learned.... That when you harbor bitterness, happiness willdock elsewhere.
I've learned.... That I wish I could have told my Mom that I loveher one more time before she passed away.
I've learned.... That one should keep his words both soft andtender, because tomorrow he may have to eat them.
I've learned.... That a smile is an inexpensive way to improveyour looks.
I've learned.... That when your newly born grandchild holds yourlittle finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.
I've learned.... That everyone wants to live on top of themountain,but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.
I've learned .... That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.
In Memory of Snookums
In Memory of Snookums
A year ago today, my little dog, Snookums, passed away. She was a Chihuahua/Terrier mix and loved to lick. She was the best dog and would always mind, stay right with me without a leash and always let me know when someone was around. I adopted her back in 1998 when her original owner could not care for her any longer. She quickly adapted to life with me and baby dog Abby. Snookums loved to go whenever she got the chance and in the beginning of our life together, my job entailed much travel, however when she got in the car, she started whining to get out. So, traveling with her was a challenge but eventually with time and many miles later, she finally learned to relax and let me pass through a county or two prior to starting the cycle to stop again.
Snookums loved being in my garden with me and that is where she is buried. Under the banana trees so she will get shade and have a clear view of all angles of the garden. She loved lying on the cool stones watching my every move. She was best-behaved little furry family member and every thought of her makes me smile. I miss her and yet feel she is still with me, as I talk to her daily while visiting my garden.
I can't get her picture to upload but when I do, I will be posting her happy little face here.
A year ago today, my little dog, Snookums, passed away. She was a Chihuahua/Terrier mix and loved to lick. She was the best dog and would always mind, stay right with me without a leash and always let me know when someone was around. I adopted her back in 1998 when her original owner could not care for her any longer. She quickly adapted to life with me and baby dog Abby. Snookums loved to go whenever she got the chance and in the beginning of our life together, my job entailed much travel, however when she got in the car, she started whining to get out. So, traveling with her was a challenge but eventually with time and many miles later, she finally learned to relax and let me pass through a county or two prior to starting the cycle to stop again.
Snookums loved being in my garden with me and that is where she is buried. Under the banana trees so she will get shade and have a clear view of all angles of the garden. She loved lying on the cool stones watching my every move. She was best-behaved little furry family member and every thought of her makes me smile. I miss her and yet feel she is still with me, as I talk to her daily while visiting my garden.
I can't get her picture to upload but when I do, I will be posting her happy little face here.
My Story @ POZ Magazine
Hi,
Recently POZ magazine printed a short article about me and I would like to share it with you. There are a couple of discrepancies but only in reference to my doctor, he was a man, not a woman, and I have many more than 3 banana trees.
Have a great day,
Christine
Here's the link to my story - http://www.poz.com/articles/woman_1_1976_14470.shtmlYou can also get to it by starting at http://www.poz.com/, then clicking on women's place in the drop-down under community on the top of the home page, then scrolling down to the lower right.
Recently POZ magazine printed a short article about me and I would like to share it with you. There are a couple of discrepancies but only in reference to my doctor, he was a man, not a woman, and I have many more than 3 banana trees.
Have a great day,
Christine
Here's the link to my story - http://www.poz.com/articles/woman_1_1976_14470.shtmlYou can also get to it by starting at http://www.poz.com/, then clicking on women's place in the drop-down under community on the top of the home page, then scrolling down to the lower right.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Friday's are Special
My favorite day of the week is Tuesday. This could have to do with being born on that day of the week or maybe because I seem to be more productive on Tuesday's than other days, who knows. But for the last few years, my favorite day of the week has changed; in a sense. Oh, don't get me wrong, I still really like Tuesdays and find myself kicking in gear for the week ahead by then but lately I have been looking forward to Fridays more and more.
You see, Friday is the day my best friend is off work and she and I have time to spend together. Well, we actually have arranged our schedules to give ourselves a special day without the men folk around, work to do or others to tend to. Oh, we have the grandest of times. During the summer months, we take advantage of her swimming pool for the exercise, together time and privacy it provides. Most weeks we have the pool to ourselves which makes it even nicer to swim laps, splash around and talk. Talking is the best part of Friday because my best friend and I can do plenty of that. And we proceed to solve the worlds problems in our minds and are usually laughing out loud and making believe. It's a nice trip into fantasy land for a few hours and a great stress reliever. We often use each other as a sound board to share ideas, thoughts and dreams. See, again you can see where the talking comes in and why I like it so.
Fridays are also spent running errands, taking care of the recycling, the post office, grocery store runs and of course a stop at the dollar store. With the outrageous price of gas and being the smart, creative, thrifty women we are, we make the best of the time and gas we have. It really makes for a grand ole day tooting around with my best friend on Fridays. Even though we are taking care of things that need to be taken care of, the main thing is that we are doing it together, encouraging, laughing and connecting, as women and best friends need to do. It is healthy for the soul and for the soul growth.
So, I encourage you to ask God to present a best friend to you to share a special day of the week with if you do not already have one. It will amaze you how your spirit gets lifted and the joy of having that special day heals the mind, body and soul. It makes for a bright spot in life and a treat to look forward to.
By the way, my best friend's name is Shelley. We have spent many Friday's together over the past 4 years and I look forward to thousands more, starting with today.
Pick up the phone and call your friend, you will be glad you did.
Christine
You see, Friday is the day my best friend is off work and she and I have time to spend together. Well, we actually have arranged our schedules to give ourselves a special day without the men folk around, work to do or others to tend to. Oh, we have the grandest of times. During the summer months, we take advantage of her swimming pool for the exercise, together time and privacy it provides. Most weeks we have the pool to ourselves which makes it even nicer to swim laps, splash around and talk. Talking is the best part of Friday because my best friend and I can do plenty of that. And we proceed to solve the worlds problems in our minds and are usually laughing out loud and making believe. It's a nice trip into fantasy land for a few hours and a great stress reliever. We often use each other as a sound board to share ideas, thoughts and dreams. See, again you can see where the talking comes in and why I like it so.
Fridays are also spent running errands, taking care of the recycling, the post office, grocery store runs and of course a stop at the dollar store. With the outrageous price of gas and being the smart, creative, thrifty women we are, we make the best of the time and gas we have. It really makes for a grand ole day tooting around with my best friend on Fridays. Even though we are taking care of things that need to be taken care of, the main thing is that we are doing it together, encouraging, laughing and connecting, as women and best friends need to do. It is healthy for the soul and for the soul growth.
So, I encourage you to ask God to present a best friend to you to share a special day of the week with if you do not already have one. It will amaze you how your spirit gets lifted and the joy of having that special day heals the mind, body and soul. It makes for a bright spot in life and a treat to look forward to.
By the way, my best friend's name is Shelley. We have spent many Friday's together over the past 4 years and I look forward to thousands more, starting with today.
Pick up the phone and call your friend, you will be glad you did.
Christine
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Tips On How To Boost Your Self Esteem
Tips On How To Boost Your Self Esteem
If it makes your knees knock a little, do it!
Seize an opportunity when it comes your way, especially if you’re a little unsure you can do it.
Say “I Can” when your inner voice say “I Can’t.”
Every time we assert that we can do something-even if we’re not sure-we imprint success in our psyches.
Honor your daily victories.
When you stick to a commitment-notice those little victories and take a moment to feel proud of them.
Read the right thing before bed.
Make a list of any achievements you made and read it before going to sleep. Your brain will remember, and your confidence will soar.
If it makes your knees knock a little, do it!
Seize an opportunity when it comes your way, especially if you’re a little unsure you can do it.
Say “I Can” when your inner voice say “I Can’t.”
Every time we assert that we can do something-even if we’re not sure-we imprint success in our psyches.
Honor your daily victories.
When you stick to a commitment-notice those little victories and take a moment to feel proud of them.
Read the right thing before bed.
Make a list of any achievements you made and read it before going to sleep. Your brain will remember, and your confidence will soar.
HIV/AIDS Statistics
Women with HIV are more likely to postpone care because they lack transportation.
Women with HIV postpone care because they are to sick to go to the doctor.
Women with HIV postpone care because their family’s needs come first.
Women with HIV:
Get educated about the virus & how it affects your body.
Learn how HIV/AIDS affects your home community.
Learn how HIV/AIDS affects the world population.
Become involved in local, state & federal funding processes.
Volunteer at a local AIDS Service Organization.
Volunteer to hand out HIV/AIDS material at a community health fair.
Sign up for HIV/AIDS focus groups.
Go to a HIV Planning Council meeting.
Most AIDS diagnoses among women are due to heterosexual transmission (71% in 2003) followed by injection drug use (27%).
Among younger women, ages 20-24 heterosexual transmission accounts for 79% of estimated new AIDS cases and 61% among teen girls, ages 13-19.
Most women with HIV/AIDS receiving medical care have children under age 18 in their homes (76%, 2003), which may complicate their ability to manage their own illness.
Women account for 46% of adults living with HIV worldwide.
77% of infected young people in sub-Saharan Africa are girls.
Nearly one million Americans are living with HIV. (2003)
More than 40 million people around the world are infected with HIV (2003).
In the United States, 72 African-Americans are infected with HIV every day (2003).
Women with HIV are more likely to postpone care due to lack of transportation.
Women with HIV postpone care because they are to sick to go to the doctor and do not have insurance.
In 2005, Hays County Tx Served 14 Females for HIV
8844 Female AIDS cases were reported in Texas in 2004
Texas ranked #4 in the nation with 62,983 AIDS cases in 2003
The average annual cost of HIV care is $20,000.00+
There is NO cure for HIV
Most AIDS diagnoses among women are due to heterosexual transmission (71% in 2003)
followed by injection drug use (27%).
Women with HIV postpone care because they are to sick to go to the doctor.
Women with HIV postpone care because their family’s needs come first.
Women with HIV:
Get educated about the virus & how it affects your body.
Learn how HIV/AIDS affects your home community.
Learn how HIV/AIDS affects the world population.
Become involved in local, state & federal funding processes.
Volunteer at a local AIDS Service Organization.
Volunteer to hand out HIV/AIDS material at a community health fair.
Sign up for HIV/AIDS focus groups.
Go to a HIV Planning Council meeting.
Most AIDS diagnoses among women are due to heterosexual transmission (71% in 2003) followed by injection drug use (27%).
Among younger women, ages 20-24 heterosexual transmission accounts for 79% of estimated new AIDS cases and 61% among teen girls, ages 13-19.
Most women with HIV/AIDS receiving medical care have children under age 18 in their homes (76%, 2003), which may complicate their ability to manage their own illness.
Women account for 46% of adults living with HIV worldwide.
77% of infected young people in sub-Saharan Africa are girls.
Nearly one million Americans are living with HIV. (2003)
More than 40 million people around the world are infected with HIV (2003).
In the United States, 72 African-Americans are infected with HIV every day (2003).
Women with HIV are more likely to postpone care due to lack of transportation.
Women with HIV postpone care because they are to sick to go to the doctor and do not have insurance.
In 2005, Hays County Tx Served 14 Females for HIV
8844 Female AIDS cases were reported in Texas in 2004
Texas ranked #4 in the nation with 62,983 AIDS cases in 2003
The average annual cost of HIV care is $20,000.00+
There is NO cure for HIV
Most AIDS diagnoses among women are due to heterosexual transmission (71% in 2003)
followed by injection drug use (27%).
Stigma
Stigma
Stigma was never a word or feeling I had ever had much dealings with prior to my diagnoses of AIDS. Immediately upon my diagnoses, the word spread quickly among my family and friends and along came the labeling of my life. Some would say I was promiscuous, others indicated I lived a seedy lifestyle while yet others never spoke a word, only drifted away. Blame was laid without knowledge causing even more stigma and hurt. How could people that know and love me cause me this much pain? The stigma hurt my soul more than the disease.
The burning desire to heal my soul and not allow the disease or the stigma to take control was overwhelming. I knew education was the key. The grandest stigma obstacle I have to deal with is right at home. I face this challenge daily when I speak about HIV/AIDS and yet, over a period of time, my efforts of education are paying off. At least now, an unheated conversation can be had or questions and comments can be made.
I will continue to speak out, educate and support others living with the label of stigma. It is truly an uphill climb to Stop the Stigma however, with more and more of us making the track, the easier the climb gets.
November 27, 2005
Christine
Stigma was never a word or feeling I had ever had much dealings with prior to my diagnoses of AIDS. Immediately upon my diagnoses, the word spread quickly among my family and friends and along came the labeling of my life. Some would say I was promiscuous, others indicated I lived a seedy lifestyle while yet others never spoke a word, only drifted away. Blame was laid without knowledge causing even more stigma and hurt. How could people that know and love me cause me this much pain? The stigma hurt my soul more than the disease.
The burning desire to heal my soul and not allow the disease or the stigma to take control was overwhelming. I knew education was the key. The grandest stigma obstacle I have to deal with is right at home. I face this challenge daily when I speak about HIV/AIDS and yet, over a period of time, my efforts of education are paying off. At least now, an unheated conversation can be had or questions and comments can be made.
I will continue to speak out, educate and support others living with the label of stigma. It is truly an uphill climb to Stop the Stigma however, with more and more of us making the track, the easier the climb gets.
November 27, 2005
Christine
My First Blogging Experience
Good Morning World,
This is amazing, just amazing! My very first blog. I never saw myself blogging till a few days ago when my longtime friend and computer guru suggested it to me as an alternative to him designing a web page on my behalf. He basically said "NO" when I asked him to do the hard work of designing, laying out and whatever else you do in that area of the computer world to produce that kind of magic.
He told me to first "prove myself" to him and show him I had what it takes to be a good writer and be willing to put out the commitment and produce the hard work needed to be successful in getting information out there while attracting traffic to my site. WELL, what a challenge I took that to be. Even though his words were not exactly that, the interpretation that came to mind was my natural Italian pride of, "I will show you." So, that is why I am here and am actually glad he prompted me to do so.
The web page I wanted him to design was to be structured on HIV+ women yet open to all women and men interested in HIV/AIDS. A place I could freely express myself on the subject of HIV/AIDS or anything else that was on the tip of my tongue. I wanted it to address the issues and social stigma we face, the challenges and achievements we endure and over come and the education and support we have gained or need to gain all while living with a chronic and sometimes fatal illness called AIDS. These are only a few of the topics about HIV you would have seen there and not every article, comment or posting would have been directly related to HIV. I intended to provide informative information, funny and interesting articles and over all, pretty much something for everybody regarding Life, Health, Spirituality and Happiness on that web page.
Instead of a web page, you will see my dream come true here, on the pages of my blog. So, I really want to say a heartfelt Thank You to my friend Dean for telling me NO, because he truely believed in me more than I believed in myself when it comes to the computer world and blogging.
I look forward to hearing from each and every one of you as I continue to build this blog. Please feel free to ask questions, make suggestions or just look around.
Hurry back soon to see what is new!
Have a Wonderful day,
Christine
This is amazing, just amazing! My very first blog. I never saw myself blogging till a few days ago when my longtime friend and computer guru suggested it to me as an alternative to him designing a web page on my behalf. He basically said "NO" when I asked him to do the hard work of designing, laying out and whatever else you do in that area of the computer world to produce that kind of magic.
He told me to first "prove myself" to him and show him I had what it takes to be a good writer and be willing to put out the commitment and produce the hard work needed to be successful in getting information out there while attracting traffic to my site. WELL, what a challenge I took that to be. Even though his words were not exactly that, the interpretation that came to mind was my natural Italian pride of, "I will show you." So, that is why I am here and am actually glad he prompted me to do so.
The web page I wanted him to design was to be structured on HIV+ women yet open to all women and men interested in HIV/AIDS. A place I could freely express myself on the subject of HIV/AIDS or anything else that was on the tip of my tongue. I wanted it to address the issues and social stigma we face, the challenges and achievements we endure and over come and the education and support we have gained or need to gain all while living with a chronic and sometimes fatal illness called AIDS. These are only a few of the topics about HIV you would have seen there and not every article, comment or posting would have been directly related to HIV. I intended to provide informative information, funny and interesting articles and over all, pretty much something for everybody regarding Life, Health, Spirituality and Happiness on that web page.
Instead of a web page, you will see my dream come true here, on the pages of my blog. So, I really want to say a heartfelt Thank You to my friend Dean for telling me NO, because he truely believed in me more than I believed in myself when it comes to the computer world and blogging.
I look forward to hearing from each and every one of you as I continue to build this blog. Please feel free to ask questions, make suggestions or just look around.
Hurry back soon to see what is new!
Have a Wonderful day,
Christine
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