ABSTRACT
In the stories of men with HIV/AIDS, we discover that within the context of the disease, gay men in relationship often find spirituality that heals. The experience of sharing a life of integrity together offers things to gay male couples that may prepare them for the violent intrusion of HIV/AIDS in their lives, but it does not make it much easier to live their love together with this intrusion. However, HIV/AIDS can become a call, a challenge, to an ever-deepening, loving relationship that creates new dimensions of the spirituality of the gay male couple. Although Rick does not mention it, other gay male couples affected by HIV/AIDS speak of deciding not to remain friends with those who created a negative, stressful situation for them. With the knowledge of the presence of HIV in their relationship, nothing could be the same again. Clearly, HIV/AIDS is the constant companion of the couple.
