It all starts with a conversation
First published on http://ajanweb.org/ajan-lenten-reflections-2017 Today’s reading is about one of the outstanding stories in the bible (Jn 4:5-42) What makes it unique is the fruitful relations it portrays. From our childhood Sunday school teachings, we know somehow that the Samaritans and the Jews were not really on speaking terms. Yet the Lord found this as a rich opportunity to plant a seed of mutual respect, common good and love within mankind. He did not worry himself about perceptions, social constructs and widespread beliefs about Jews and Samaritans. He was crossing boundaries to reach out to others. Working with young people over the past 10 years, I have experienced three main scenarios in relation to HIV. I have seen children born with the virus maturing into their adolescence (thanks to ART). I have encountered young people infected mostly through sexual contact and I have met others infected by accident. All had one experience in common wh...