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Hoosier United Methodist News Archives
| Hoosier United Methodist News |
September 2001 |
'Not from me. Not from me'
Dear Ed and Susan,
When listening to the Rosie O'Donnell Show (I listen while filing), I was appalled at hearing a "pop" song, sung by an attractive group. The words went, "She has HIV -- Where did she get it? Not from me -- Not from me." The singers look off in the distance, looking guilty. I think this is harmful to young people. I know there is obscenity in pop songs, but encouraging irresponsibility really upsets me. I don't know what to do, beyond talking to my pre-teen and teenage grandchildren. Do you have any suggestions concerning this?
Signed,
Filing and Wondering
Dear F and W:
Your letter raises several important issues: HIV; our attitudes toward it; safe sex; and how to deal with the media. Persons who are HIV positive deserve our support and care.
Many people's attitudes toward those infected with HIV are shaped by their beliefs about homosexuality. HIV is not a disease that happens only to homosexuals. It is not shameful. HIV deserves our best efforts in a search for a cure, compassion for those afflicted, and concern from those who love them.
Your letter suggests you are concerned about people's responsibility in regard to spreading the HIV. That is certainly appropriate. Sometimes, people live in denial, believing that HIV will not happen to them, only to others.
The words of the song you quoted could be taken several ways. One is that the singers are not responsible for the woman's disease. They "didn't do it," so to speak. Another interpretation might be that the song is about being responsible, and not spreading the disease. You seem to think the singers look guilty. Of what? That is a kind of broadcast condemnation, and may suggest some prejudice you have regarding HIV, even extending to the people singing a song.
Thank you for the courage it took you to write this letter.
Letters may be sent to the Alleys at the Kairos Center for
the Family,
4337 Kessler Blvd. N. Drive, Indianapolis, Ind. 46228.