I really never was afraid of dying. I was afraid of leaving my children orphans. I have different fears today. I worry that my children learn from my mistakes. I hope that they will live their lives knowing that they did everything to prevent getting HIV. Last week my youngest son came to me and told me he was gay. He is only 14 years old. I deal with homosexual men all the time. Most of which are sick. I sat my son down and told him that his father and I love him. No matter what label he put on himself. We have always been concerned about our children protecting themselves gay or straight. As we know this can happen to anyone. He told me it was easier to talk with me about it than he thought it would be. Chalk one up for communication! I hope he was listening to me also when I told him that although I understand that he is attracted to persons of the same sex. I feel that he isn’t old enough or mature enough to be involved in a sexual relationship, gay or straight. I told him he is more than welcome to date. As a parent I feel that it should be only as group outings, movies, etc...
Jae
What an intelligent parent you are. You,ve given your son comfort, and space to grow. I have 3 children, who are now in their late 20's and early 30's. I never ceased worrying about their well-being and their happiness, that my HIV did not impinge on their lives...but between you and I and others who are able to be open and frank with their kids, we are creating a new generation of understanding and compassionate people in the fight against AIDS.