LITERARY
Artwork by @QuinnArt
WARNING written by Queenie Mauhay If you’re going to enter my world, Barge into my door, And destroy the wall Separating me from reality, Let me warn you– Let me warn you That I have an unfathomable mind. I make people as planets Revolving around me And turns me into who I am. Let me warn you That my thoughts are as wild As the billions of stars Dazzling up in the sky, Yet balls of gasses that Burns eternally. Let me warn you That I don’t see the moon as moon, But as a goddess that loves people Dearly, yet Afraid of being hated Beacuse of its incurable flaws. Let me warn you That never have I thought that the sun Is just an ordinary sun that people Loves so much, But as a man who accepts The moon for who she was Even if he needs To catch her shadow forever. Let me warn you That you may or may not Become a part of me— A galaxy that wonders which place She belongs to. Always Lost in her thoughts, Lives in her own dreams, And wears her slivered pride As a crown. Elegantly, Galantly, With much dignity. Let me warn you, If I am the universe, Are you still willing to find me too?
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It’s okay not to be okay written by Aeronne Ara Pagtakhan
I think change is something we all are afraid of; it’s hard to embrace. There are still those a lot of “what ifs” and a bunch of questions starting with “whys.” Like, how you wonder if things went according to plan, how would you feel? Happy? Satisfied? Who can answer that? No one, but you. What if things don’t go back to the way it was before, will you survive or struggle? Your mind overthinks endlessly, imagining all the worst possible scenarios. There are times where you find yourself staring blankly at nothing or being in the middle of something then suddenly, your thoughts hit you. Hard. You feel a tight squeeze on your chest as tears running down your cheeks, wiping furiously. I want to tell you this, it’s okay not to be okay. You are strong, stronger than what you think— Bold, compassionate, daring, bright, loving and so much more. Whatever you are going through, whatever pain you are feeling right now, you have what it takes to get through it. There’s no need to rush, continue to heal yourself and move forward at your own pace. What you deserve will come to you. Change may be scary, but sometimes change is what we need.
T H E A R T O F S A F E S PAC E written by Ryan de Torres When people undergo HIV testing, some are confused, some are anxious, and some are prepared. Welcome them with uplifting soul to encourage them and take a pause. Assist them with kindness to let them feel the ease or offer them a coffee to let them experience a relaxing breeze. Sit with them with openness, with no bias nor stereotyping. Begin the conversation by letting them know you, that you are here ready to help and convey that they are not alone. Know their thoughts, know what their sentiments for you to know what is going on. Understand their story, feel it as if it is yours. Lend your ears and take note. Reassure them with calmness, with no judgment towards them. Listen attentively, respond suitably.
teaching and sharing with information that is tailored-fit. As they are about to get their results, some are confused, some are anxious, and some are prepared. Strengthen their heart and soul with encouragement, they need the most. As they see the result, you will see different feelings and reactions. Some are relieved, and some are joyful, let them cherish what they feel. Some are lost, and some are sad, let them feel you are there to guide and accompany them. Some do not exactly know what to do.
Let them feel the hope to secure their momentarily lost soul. Whatever the result, definitely it is not the end, some will need guidance, while some will need reassurance. At the end of the day, they will let you know, the difference you made--the By this time, they may be uncomfortable, comforting presence and caring atmosafraid, or ashamed. Empower them by phere you provided. The art of safe space.
