We're Lying: Safe Sex and White Lies in the Time of AIDS

The chapter explains Meghan Daum's lack of knowledge on AIDS in high school and how when she goes to college she learns to fear it, but not enough to always be protected. She also touches upon the myth that AIDS is a homosexual disease. I think the "we" Daum refers to throughout the chapter are teens and young adults that don't think AIDS will effect them. I am unfortunately part of the "we". I've taken two health classes, one in middle school and another freshman year. I had one day devoted to safe sex in 5th grade and I've had at least three "talks" either from my parents or from others' parents who unfortunately had planned to give their child the "talk" that day while I was over. I've learned about STDs, HIV and AIDS more than necessary and I still don't live in fear. Why? Like Daum says we as humans try not to focus on negatives. I believe that I can make good choices and the people I'm around are "clean", but the truth is AIDS doesn't have a face. There is no sign that warns you who has AIDS and who doesn't and that must change. It is unfortunate, but "I probably won't truly take the AIDS crisis personally until I see either someone like me succumb to it". I know to wear a condom, but it's more about pregnancy. Yeah, I'm scared of STDs, but it's not my initial fear. It is sad, but true and I think it makes me part of the "we".