Is it possible to be thankful to HIV for who you are today?

Certainly, just as it's possible to be thankful for any challenges which teach us things. Learning from difficult experiences seems to be the best thing that we can gain from struggle, as far as I can tell. As I've said in past Q & A responses, becoming positive exploded a lot of unhelpful pressures that I had placed on myself, and forced me further along the path of self-acceptance than I believe might have come otherwise. Being positive is also a consistent reminder to enjoy the present moment and circumstance, as I've realized that circumstances can change dramatically in an instant.

The truth is, I've enjoyed so much incredible good fortune throughout my life that becoming HIV positive when and where I did just feels like another example of that. I've had access to medication that is incredibly effective with minimal side effects, health care, good food and clean water, a network of supportive friends and family, a culture that has legal protection against discrimination, and, perhaps most importantly, the personal ability to accept my circumstances and clearly see how lucky I am.