Seekingwifey, 51

My spirit has got to be one of the most unstoppable forces in the history of the universe. I have endured things that would break most people and I did it with the understanding that my peace and happiness is always my choice. Circumstances not people have no say so in that matter. I have always been very open-minded and educated, which led me to dating someone who was undetectable, when I was negative. That experience and seeing firsthand the quality of life that was possible, prepared me for the day when I was diagnosed, years later. Not by the same person. Funny side note: when I was diagnosed, the nurse asked me what was going through my mind. My response was, “well, there’s a lot of benefits that just became available to me!” That’s me in a nutshell. I put things in perspective, and never stress about things out of my control. I simply address what I can, and continue to smile my way through life. I’m not obligated to be sad about anything. A roller coaster that traveled in a straight line from start to finish, would seem like a ripoff. It’s the high climbs and stomach churning twist and falls, that feels exhilarating and worth the price of admission. That’s how I see life. In the end, I’ll say, “ wow! What a ride!” Water tastes best, when you are dying of thirst. A studio apartment, feels like a mansion to someone who has been homeless in the rain and cold. The wealthy could never know the same joy from such a small home. I embrace all struggles in life, because it adds so much joy to the good times. My only concern, is to live honestly and with kindness and love in my heart. As long as that’s covered, I march to my own beat, and do whatever brings me joy. As far as hiv, it’s just another chance for me to show others, that absolutely nothing has to stop you from being happy. Only you can do that.