World AIDS Day 2009

[newtexturas]

You know, with his charisma and sexy appeal, there are many fans that are inspired by you and your way of life. Then, when you can, do more videos like this by sending messages to people

[newtexturas]

Hi Paul

We have not come on your channel and I was happy that you ~ and continues to produce their videos as well made and so funny. But I was amazed and thrilled that you have used your space to tell a fact such as personal and confessional on this subject that affects and concerns us all, gay men around the world!

[psychokid6969]

That's a sad story, but I'm glad you shared it. My family are evangelicals and I wouldn't be surprised if they are praying that a vaccine for AIDS is never released.

[bimboblacky]

And, having said that, I bet U R REALLY, really good at it. (Just B-ware of the "burnout" phenomenon 4 which those helping professions R so notorious...)

[bimboblacky]

A redneck family, eh? (Probably part of the reason I never hear any Judeo-Christian references coming out of your videos...) 4 whatever this is worth, JESUS would NOT have treated your uncle that way! (And there IS 4-giveness 4 those of us, and I use the term US very much on purpose, sigh, who DID treat him and others like him with less than a full measure of compassion). I PROBABLY could have determined that U were some kind of counselor from this video ALONE, SANS your mention of it.

[jimbobubbadj]

Paul, Thanks for sharing your personal information. It helps us subscribers to understand where you are coming from. Keep the great videos coming.

[postyesterdayman]

Man, that is awful. BUT your uncle's story is sadly common, especially during the 80's and 90's. You cannot hold yourself responsible for that or even for how you responded to him and the situation because you were a child and, as children, we are all products of our environments and families. Please, forgive yourself...he would, I can almost guarantee that.

[Sweetleprachaun]

don't beat yourself up Paul, you being a counselor is the an amazing way to honor your unles memory. Also remember, this was 1992, there wasn't a whole lot of information readily availible at that time.

You educating yourself and others via your job is also an amazing thing to do. I know this isn't your normal deal, but it really showed a lot of courage to admit you weren't that nice to him. The fact you talk about him now, and acknowledge his existence is major. Thanks for sharing your story.

[Shyguyx12]

I had a cousin who died from full blown AIDS. I believe it was back in the early days of the epidemic. My immediate family never talks about it.

[klyymaxx23]

Thank you for sharing this will us. You honor your Uncle with this video and your work.

[Jazzspace38]

Hey Paul thanks so much for sharing this story. You make such a difference in people's lives by being a counselor. That I think, in a way, is your Uncle's gift.

I admire what you do. Don't worry you are never depressing to me. Namaste my friend!

[savaja02]

Your BRAVERY is Astounding.

[deadpoolclassic]

sorry for your hurt bra but come on dont be dissin on yo parents. love man its all about the love

[Beeht]

There are good parents and there are bad parents. Parents shouldn't automatically get respect from their children. They have to earn it. His did not, it would seem.

[deadpoolclassic]

a wise man once said "forgiveness is divine......i cant remember the rest but you get my point

[Beeht]

Forgivness is a great thing but you aren't required to respect, like, or even talk nicely about those that you have forgiven.

[postyesterdayman]

Hey man, not all parents deserve love, 'bra.' Especially those who abuse mentally and physically and those who just aren't there.

[deadpoolclassic]

i doubt highly his parents abused him phisically im guessing he hates them because they werent that happy about him being gay but whatever thats all stupid shit i just dont think that insulting your parents on camera is a good thing

[shawnthomasonline]

Hey Paul -- thank you for sharing your heart and your testimony. Your honesty and transparency are a blessing. This day is about remembering, and you do honor to your uncle by remembering him now. Peace to you,

Shawn

[mindya12]

Paul, do not beat yourself up. You didn't know any better then. You were a child. Ignorance sometimes makes us act out stupidly. You now know more and you feel badly and your Uncle understands now. He loved you. People with AIDS need to be treated better and people need to be educated on how AIDS is spread and know that just being around someone that has it, can not give it to you. A hug, holding someone's hand can not give you AIDS. I'm glad you do what you do for work. That's great.

[beamermt25]

OMG i'm sorry for your hurt *hugs*

[point5past]

it's so tragic that such a stigma was (and often still is) associated with hiv and aids. i'm sure you uncle would be proud that you are speaking out and helping people become more aware. thank you so much for sharing your story!

[BrizyComics]

Buddy, that was a really powerful and heartbreaking story. It shows a lot of strength to tell it here. God be with you. -Briz

[omguy]

Thanks for your story. You honor your uncle's memory by talking about him, remembering the good times with him, and sharing his/your experience with HIV/AIDS. That is a principle purpose of World AIDS Day to remember, honor, and work to do more to end the suffering of those impacted by HIV/AIDS. Namaste!

[peacecraft82]

Oh wow, that is so sad. I can't believe things like that still happen.

[ryandell25]

Thanks for sharing the story, It really hit close to my heart on a personal level when I think about all the people out there suffering from this disease

[chaos862]

Thanks for your story. Today is my birthday and W.A.D. I have been living with HIV (healthy) for 9 years. Your Uncle would be proud of you for speaking out. While it is no longer a "death sentence" it is a reminder to be smart, be safe, and be compassionate. Thanks for being all 3!

[ShartimusPrime]

First off, thanks for sharing such a personal story. Second, it's not your fault how you treated your uncle. And third, damn dude, you almost made me cry over here man.

Wow, the part where he screamed for your grandfather and he couldn't hear your grandfather taking back. :( I believe there's a huge conspiracy because Brazil and other countries have wicked awesome treatments for AIDS that we don't use here in the USA.

[appleyeoman]

That is very sad and scary to think about. I am glad that you shared that.

[tattooskin72]

Sadly, you had no idea really... but the adults in your family did. They should have acted the part of the grown ups and showed proper respect to your uncle.

I'm glad you made this video... peace

[agent42q]

Thanks for sharing that, gave me the perspective on the subject I needed.

[maxxxxsolo]

Talking about feelings does heal the heart and losing loved ones is always a slow mend.

[meitzjoei]

u said what had 2 b said. it's so easy and tempting 2 b careless 'just this one time'.ppl forget what can happen or feel invincible.

I shared this with all my contacts.

Am thinking of finidhing my degree & going into counseling also. gud 4 u!!

[mbthebulldog]

You are an excellent person.

[Touya82TT]

Thanks for sharing this story, man. The cause is just and the support for the medical advancement to be rid of this disease is moving forward. Thankfully we can look ahead with hope.

[slyfox1944]

As you say in your video, you were very young at the time of your uncle's death. Too many things were still unknown at the time and too many assumptions were still being made as to how people could get AIDS. The fact that you are doing what you can to improve those false impressions is a great step forward. It touches me to know that you made inquiries about where your uncle's remains are now. Just remember, he knows how you truly feel now and that you care so much.

[jranightmare]

Powerful vid man

[watertower12]

Beautiful video. Everyone should see this.

[stoner829]

By doing this video you are making a tribute to your uncle....what a great thing to do. Little kids do all sorts of silly things that you cannot take back. Please don't be too hard on yourself. Your uncle forgives you...

My best friend is HIV positive. He lives in Ft. Lauderdale. Thankfully he lives in 2009 and because of the drugs his immune system is probably better than mine! Things are getting better.

Thanks Paul..you are a gr8 person and a great NEPHEW!

[depfox]

Great Video. Im glad you are helping those that need help with tuff issues in life. You would make a great cop also just a thought. I am very sorry about the loss of your uncle.

[thedancetuber]

he hears you, thanks for doing this vid.