We can do something!

Bobby R. Henry, Sr.
Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

We can do something!

The strong spirit of a man sustains him in bodily pain or trouble, but a weak and broken spirit who can raise up or bear?                      Proverbs 18:14 (Amplified Bible)

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

      One day past the celebration of World AIDS Day, I pray that we are moved to do something to stem the tide and eradicate this infection that has touched our lives in so many ways.

     One may feel helpless when it comes to “how” to offer emotional support and lend oneself to giving a helping hand to this population.

     Yes, they may be infected and we are affected, but our actions should not make them feel neglected, rejected or disconnected.

     The alarming numbers of those being infected daily seem to be pulled together in a casting net that is capturing the low income and the minority communities, with young Black women in greater numbers.

     Statistics, as shocking and revealing as they are, have not penetrated the psyche deep enough to stop the risky business of unprotected s*x. Nor has the alarming death rate in young Black women infected with HIV/AIDS, stirred the necessary emotions with the same veracity that causes one to continue to participate in the behaviors that have influenced this infection caused one to get tested and know their status.

     Even in sickness our pride blinds us and furthermore, when we are ostracized because of our illness, we turn deeper into despair, causing more anguish and still we do not get tested!.

     “Woe to me because of my injury! My wound is incurable! Yet I said to myself, “This is my sickness, and I must endure it.”                  Jeremiah 10:19 (NIV) 

     Even though they are infected, we are affected, but that is no entitlement for the affected to be disconnected, dismayed or disheartened over either disposition.

     It has been well documented that the frame of mind in which one approaches difficulties in life helps to shape the outcome from a physical and psychological perspective.

     Our choices dictate a rippling effect to our surroundings- either good or bad. Unfortunately newborn babies have no choice. These babies had no control over the consequences of the actions to them who made conscious decisions to participate in activities that offered an invitation to the HIV/AIDS virus.

     Be that as it may, we have a responsibility to others to live in a state of harmony. 

     “And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities.”  Hebrews 10:24 (Amplified Bible)

     It is up to us to encourage, love and uplift those who are down. It doesn’t cost one thin dime to make someone smile. To offer a word of encouragement takes only a minute but has a lifetime of rewards. By being supportive, we build each other up and strengthen our spirits by sharing hope.

     Sharing hope is like a ray of Sonshine that breaks through a storm-filled, darkened sky. It’s laughter to the soul and strength to a weakened spirit.

     “When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it John 11:4 (NIV)

     HIV/AIDS is not an ugly disease, because it is seen in and on the faces of our loved ones and our loved ones are not ugly; they are sick and need our love and care.

     “Dear God, give me a loving heart to care for those who are burdened with the HIV/AIDS virus.” —Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

 

About Carma Henry 24481 Articles
Carma Lynn Henry Westside Gazette Newspaper 545 N.W. 7th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 Office: (954) 525-1489 Fax: (954) 525-1861

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