11
OPEN ROADS
Accept and own what has been dealt you-and tell others
by Thom Sommers
I received several letters in response to my October 13 article, "Do you tell them you're HIV+, and risk dying from their fear?" Of those letters, one in particular I found to be very empowering, and I wish to share that letter with you:
"I sit with mixed emotions after reading your article... In a sense, I feel that the ending of the title may have read, "or risk killing myself with fear."
"My concern now is for you, your potential addition to their ignorance, and the reality of the risk that you put yourself at. Given your status, they are more arisk to you than you to them... but we must take care of ourselves by first releasing our fears, owning our disease, and then communicating our needs for health maintenance.
In reading Christian's letter I felt comfort in the words he spoke. I read his letter and a few days later I read it again. I believe he is right-we need to own our disease, own our realities, and own our fears. I was recently relocated at work: new location, new people, new fears. Trusting in the process of "ownership" I confided my status to my new supervisor, Marsha.
How refreshing it felt to be released from the fear and stress. Marsha and I opened each others' doors that afternoon, standing in the
parking lot, the wind at our backs, experiencing a new understanding. You see, during our conversation, Marsha spoke of her cousin who has AIDS and is very ill. She never passed judgement on me that day. She did however offer some support as we spoke of the political hierarchy of the company for which we work. That evening I offered Marsha my journal, she read it, and now our doors are truly open. What blessing that I can now offer to her what so many have offered to me: safety.
|OPEN ROADS
"I am proud to write this letter today and tell everyone that my name is Christian Walton. I am a gay 26-year-old male, I have now lived four years with this tragic-blessing, and I have much reason to celebrate. As with every day, I will celebrate the Love, Support, Substance and Growth that this disease has brought into my life. I am also proud to say that I would not trade the life that I have now for anything. I have been able to come to the realities of return to Love (everyone and everything), and we get back what we give
out.
"Given my reality, I question not only their ignorance, but rather where your reality lies. I have watched loved ones, friends, and acquaintances be picked off one by one due to their own ignorance. People killing themselves by refusing to accept, own, and process what has been dealt them. Isn't it worth the investment in ourselves to live long, healthy, happy lives? As simple as it sounds, I'm here to tell you that it is simple!
"I have found that opening the doors to my own fears and ignorance has enabled others to open their doors as well. They see me comfortable and happy, and they want to know how and why. There is the perfect opportunity for me to share and educate what this disease is all about, not only the physiology, acquisition of, and mental aspects, but also the healing properties that can come with it. Thus, one less ignorant person in the world.
"In closing, I would say 'Tell 'em!' Even with the opposition and resistance that you may find, the support is out there in leaps and bounds if it is only given a chance. By keeping it quiet, because of our fears, we are empowering the ignorance of our government, friends, families, etc.
"Thank you for hearing me."
I thank Christian for not only his letter, but for his insight. I also thank Marsha for her openness, willingness, and honesty.
Please send any comments, concerns, questions, and experiences to Thom Sommers, care of the Chronicle, P.O. Box 5426, Cleveland Ohio, 44101
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216/836-3447
Sunday, November 19, 1995 7PM
Special Pre-Contest Show Starring:
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Don't Forget! We're Open Thanksgiving Day At 7 P.M.
NOVEMBER 10, 1995 GAY PEOPLE'S CHRONICLE
It's Time to Show Some Pride
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Credit Card Orders 800-484-8690 then dial 7228 after tone Mail Money Order for $30.95+ $3.95 Shipping and Handling P. O. Box 18842 Atlanta, GA 31126
Local call 404-658-9973 Make checks payable to Pryde
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Counseling Psychologist
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(216)734-7841
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JOIN THE GAY PEOPLES CHRONICLE
AT THE CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE ON DECEMBER 14 AND WE'LL GIVE YOU SOMETHING TO SING ABOUT! You are cordially invited to attend the first GAY PEOPLE'S CHRONICLE NIGHT ON STAGE at The Play House. The party kicks off on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14 at 8 PM with the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical revue, A Grand Night For Singing, performed in the intimate Brooks Theatre. Rodgers and Hammerstein's
A Grand Night For Singing
Conceived by Walter Bobbie Directed by Loretta Greco
The Clevelandı House Chib
After the show, the party continues in the legendary Play House Club. Both the theatre and Club have been reserved for this special occasion.
Tickets are only $30 and include admission to the show and complimentary food and wine in the Club. Less than 100 tickets are now available and will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
To RSVP call The Cleveland Play House ticket office at 795-7000 and let them know you want to attend "Chronicle Night On Stage."
!!!!!!
The Cleveland Play House
The Cleveland Play House is conveniently located at East 85th Street between Euclid and Carnegie Avenues. Plenty of lighted, secure, off-street parking.
JET