Recently I met a guy, a friend of my aunt’s actually; named Steven. Steven has full blown AIDS and has been living with the virus for 36 years. At first I did not know how to react. Obviously there isnâÂÂt a proper way or behavioral technique used around people with aids; theyâÂÂre still just like us but sick. So as I noticed everyone in the room singling Steven out, I decided to speak to him. As I spoke to him, he had so much confidence that I felt a little intimidated. I wished I was that confident and down to earth when I first met someone. I would described Steven as funny, blunt, and simply real. He would not âÂÂsugarcoat a thing,” because he feels there is no reason to. He also told me not to fear anything, because IâÂÂll live my whole life being scared and regretful.
ItâÂÂs amazing how we take the simplest things for granted, like being able to get up and dance, something Steven wishes he could have done for 36 years. One thing that truly stuck with me was the moment that Steven asked me how was my day and I said, “it was ok I mean I can’t complain.” He then replied, “You can but no one will listen.” At first I thought , wow this guy is bitter . But then I thought about what Steven said and realized what he meant. Steven was saying that the small things that went “wrong” during my day are unimportant, because I’m healthy, happy, and still have my whole life ahead of me. So what is there to complain about without sounding unappreciative? That’s it- there is no answer. So if I learned anything from Steven, itâÂÂs live life, be happy, and do not let the little things upset you. And most importantly, be thankful.