Wednesday, February 21, 2007

On a Personal Note - Dedicated to my Brother

On February 24, it will be the one year anniversary of the passing of my brother. Contrary to popular belief, people still dies from complications associated with AIDS. My brother died at 43 after living with AIDS for nearly 15 years.

I love my brother and I miss him terribly, but I don't write this to illicit sympathy, rather, to honor his memory. I also write this as a reminder that AIDS still exists and still kills. As I scan blogs, websites, chatrooms and videos, I see such a resurgency of unsafe sex practices, especially amongst our young gay brothers. It's almost as if you are not cool unless you are into barebacking.

Without being judgemental, dating and/or meeting for casual sex can be fun and exciting and part of anyone's growing experience, but it doesn't occur without responsibility. Responsibility to respect one's self and to respect your partner involves trust and practicing safe sex practices must be a part of developing that trust. All I ask is that you think about your safety first and please practice healthy fun, creative, but above all else SAFE SEX.

I miss you bro. I hope you are in a better place! Rest in peace!

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