At first, being diagnosed feels like you have been given a life sentence.

You feel isolated and alone. You are left within the whirlwind of your thoughts and emotions. It is a mental and emotional rollercoaster of coming to terms with the new reality that you have HIV.

Though it can be seen as a life sentence, in terms of it being a lifelong medical condition, you remain free.

This is one of many chapters in your life,with much of the journey and its conclusion still to be written. It is a new chapter and a new beginning of self-awareness, individual purpose and happiness.

Living with this chronic condition undoubtedly has its calm waters and turbulent storms, but it doesn’t define who you are. You have the power to chart your course on your journey through life; turn living with HIV from a perceived weakness into a strength. You can recognize it for what it is, but also have the realization that it has brought forth positive change in your life.

I know this to be true, because I, too, am HIV positive. With one step forward at a time, let us enjoy this journey together.

Where has your journey of living with HIV taken you?

Tell us what strengths you possess and how you settle the turbulent storms that might come up within or around you. Don't just read this story - share it with your social networks & start a conversation, or submit a story of your own, here on The Positive Effect.

‍