|
Page 1
|
 |
Jako,
2000.Jako
November 6, 2000
Jako: My life today is full in many ways. Nine years ago, when I contracted HIV, I thought I might not live to see my twenty-fifth birthday. Until recently, I focused on making my mark in the short time I thought I had left. My recent good health has prompted me to start planning a future I thought I'd never have. On my birthday, Valentine's Day, Chris, my supportive boyfriend of three years, proposed to me on one knee on the porch of the house we had just had an offer accepted on. He presented me with a ring he carved from walnut burl. I said, "YES!" while giggling with happy tears welling up in my eyes. Chris and I bought our house this spring. It is a great feeling to finally own after ten years of renting. The craftsman bungalow is a fixer and we're doing all the work ourselves— new paint, the floors, landscaping, ixnay on the shagadelic itchenkay (Looks like the Bradys lived there. Our backyard that started out as a flat plane of clay, the kids had used it as a basketball court, is now replete with fruit trees, a vegetable garden and green grass. Every day that we sit on the porch together, we get to remember that it's the place of our engagement. I know time will go by like lightning, and I'll be getting married before I know it. I'm going to plan it so that I enjoy the wedding while it's happening. Getting married was one of the things I never thought I'd live long enough to do.
I do as much as I can to keep my pace of life a little slower. Whenever I get too stressed out, I remember that the things that bother me pale in comparison to who I am and all that is truly important in my life. My home, fiancé, sisters, and close friends are what matter most. Having my sisters, Jessica and Sherry, near me has given me great peace. We faced so many challenges together as children and I am thankful for our strong ties. They look to me for advice, and being a healthy role model for them is very important to me.
Back to top
