By sharing your HIV status with others, what gifts did you receive this year?

"If we are to achieve a rich culture, rich in contrasting values, we must recognize the whole gamut of human potentialities, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric, one in which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place." -- Margaret Mead

The Gifts I’ve received this year form sharing my HIV status are numerous. Most importantly are the responses to the monthly questions here on the HIV Stops With Me (HSWM) web site. The thoughtful, heartwarming and encouraging responses have made the whole process worth my time and efforts.
Outside of the HSWM project, I’ve met a new group of HIV+ men through Nothing But Guys (NBG) that meets the last Tuesday of every month for a social hour and a communal meal. What a wonderful way to spend a Tuesday night, breaking bread with a diverse group of men – each unique in his own way – yet all sharing that common bond of living with HIV.

And last but certainly not least the continued love and support of my family and friends which has always been there as a gift I treasure moment to moment, but I believe, has intensified as I’ve “come out” about living with HIV in such a significant magnitude.