Stand Up.

Over the last week or so, these four ribbons have found their way into my possession. 

• One was handed to me as I walked in to see Angels in America.
• The second was given to me at a vigil for the students we’ve lost to drugs and alcohol.
• The third came to me by way of a lonely stranger. 
• I found the fourth one tucked into one of my text books.

Angels in America reacquainted me with the terror and tragedy of AIDS.  In high school I was passionate and informed and then it was like I just…forgot.  Like everyone forgot.

How cruel is that?  Now I’m terrified, I’m furious, I’m sick to my stomach and I’m wondering what I can do.  What we can do.

…

Today while working the desk some guys started shouting across the lobby.

“I got blackout drunk last night and apparently banged some chick I met a Ty’s house.” 

“Dude, it’s always awesome when your friends have to tell you what you were doing last night.” 

…

A friend of mine from freshman year dated her boyfriend for two years.  Then she found out she had HPV.  Now she regularly has to go to the OBGYN to get cancerous cells scraped off her uterus.

…

It’s estimated that one in 4 people have an STD.  Does this mean that you refuse to have a relationship with someone who’s had multiple partners in the past? 

Is the only safety celibacy?

What about the people who don’t have a choice?

I don't know what to do.  Tell me and I'll do it.  Give me a way to help.  Give me solutions, advice, answers, reasons, justifications, consolations and I'll give my time, my dedication, my heart, and my hand to hold. 

AIDS shakes the planet like it’s a snow globe.  You’re either infected or affected. 

It shouldn't can’t be ignored.