Passages from the book: The rapid HIV blood test took HIV testing to the next level. HIV testing centers sprang up just as quickly as HIV awareness. It soon became common knowledge the HIV virus wasn't isolated to any specific community or segment of the population. The media began a TV and radio blitz of the ins and outs of HIV. The pressure mounted on me. Once a hush-hush topic, HIV quickly came to the forefront of conversation. I could no longer act like a child and hide from my fears. Too many people were getting tested for me to pretend any longer.

I knew I was potentially putting my partners at risk. I couldn't live with the idea of passing the virus onto another person. I broke down. I got tested. Years later while reading Facebook posts, I came across the screen name Maria "HIV" Mejia. I couldn't believe my eyes. I clicked on her profile and read her story, thinking it must be some sort of ploy. I thought no one could be crazy enough to actually put their HIV status right there on their profile page.

For several days, I thought about it in wonder. Then I messaged her. I told Maria that I was a writer and wanted to talk to her about her story. I assured her of my intentions and that I had the utmost respect for her courage. After a few messages back and forth, she agreed to speak to me in person. Maria's ability to be open and honest was humbling. As a life-long HIV coward, I was finally in the presence of a true warrior. I found myself interviewing a hero.

Maria's work with HIV education speaks for itself. She is a global advocate in the fight for awareness, education and prevention. Her work is recognized in blogs, magazines, television, billboards, global conferences and more. In my eyes, she is a living miracle. Maria asked me if I would allow her to share my story with you all this evening. I agreed with one condition, me being allowed to make this clear to you all. Do not feel sorry for me and my "condition." I am more than the virus that is running through my body.

I have overcome Time with Love. I am one of the lucky ones. My message to you this evening is the Golden One. Please treat others the way that you wish to be treated. For time is following you. Whether you know it or not, you have taken out a loan from Time in the form of the days of your life. You will be required to pay that time back. How you choose to pay it back may be your choice, maybe not.

Please use your time in love. Use your time in tenderness. Use your time in compassion. Use your time to give. Give with joy in your heart. In the end, if you do not give willingly of yourself Time will repossess you. No one escapes Time.