Stephanie, age 8, wrote:

Listen

Listen to my heart speak
Please look at me and see
I am just a child
Trying to live with AIDS/HIV

It was given to me by my mother
Passed on to me at birth
and now, I'm trying to live my life
giving it my best while here on earth

Listen to my heart speak
To those who are afraid
Showing kindness, touching and hugging me
Will not give you HIV or AIDS

I know what it feels like to live with pain
When people I love are sick and go away
Smiling and laughing
Sometimes can be a strain

Listen to my heart speak
Please, please hear what I say
Let us love one another
For I, like you,
May be here just for today