?LIFE?

One of the tragedies of HIV infection and AIDS is the
Fear it generates in neighbors and friends. Those
Afflicted are often rejected, ostracized, even by
Those with whom they have lived much of their lives.

This is life?
Or some distortion?
Sickness by itself,
Even if the end, would be bearable.
But this sickness,
That isolates, diminishes, separates them,
From those they love, belong with,
Should not be on this earth.
It shatters their being, wounds their soul,
Robs them, even of themselves.
This life, lacking hope,
Is a empty shadow.
Don't leave him, Love; take him,
To the peace of oblivion.