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World AIDS Day 2003
by Bradford McIntyre
(Espaņol)
When it comes to
how we view HIV and AIDS, the most visible, is the fear, illness
and death tolls. What we don't see are the great numbers of individuals
infected with the HIV virus, who are LIVING! Just because an individual
tests HIV positive, this does not automatically mean they will get
sick and die. There ARE people who have been infected since the
very beginning, who are NOT sick or on any HIV/AIDS medications
and they are happy, healthy and alive. Equally so, people who are
on medications, they too, have learned to address the importance
of nutrition, exercise, vitamins, minerals, herbs and botanicals,
complementary therapies, mind, body and spirit. They are living
years, over 20 years for many, with more to come!
On November 28th 1985, I was told I had six months
to live! After four years of living in fear, my life took a dramatic
turn and I embarked on a journey away from fear! Healing does not
necessarily mean cure of disease, but healing our mind and transforming
our body to realize its full potential, joy and purpose. Learning
about the influence that our thoughts have on our life and health.
Living today as healthy and as fully as you can, mentally, emotionally,
physically and spiritually. The Abundance of Life does not come
from what one can provide for oneself, but it is provided in our
connectedness. I would not be here today if were not for all the
many people in my life. I Show UP For Life! Life's a celebration,
you don't need and invitation to celebrate life!
We don't have to carry the fears that were created
around HIV! Fear is like putting up a stop sign for living! There
is more power in people knowing the Truth, than there ever will
be in the fear and hiding. While dealing with HIV and AIDS, dedicated
people have worked tirelessly, creating awareness in the many areas
related to HIV and AIDS. Individuals spoke out, ignored the HIV
stigma, and they broke down the barriers of fear and discrimination
in their own lives, as well as for the sake of others.
Most of what caused the fear and stigma originally,
does not exist today! We have treatment options and people are living
long and productive lives. More and more people are out about HIV.
In the earlier years I hid away and felt alone, but since going
public and disclosing my status nearly ten years now, I have a freedom
I did not have before! With this freedom I am committed to breaking
down the barriers of fear and discrimination Globally! We are ALL
connected!
Whether You are affected by, or infected with HIV,
we must cross those boundaries of Fear and Discrimination. To join
Our Hearts and Our Hands, in the realization we are ALL here to
LOve one another. I join with you that we create a shift in thinking
around HIV/AIDS, and All disease! LOve is the way!
I am Positively Positive
Bradford McIntyre
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