My life changed forever when I discovered that I am HIV positive. The news came during my pregnancy with my youngest child. At first, I was filled with confusion and denial, and I felt betrayed by my partner. It turned out that the virus was transmitted by my baby’s father, whom I was dating at the time. I already have two kids who are now young teenagers, and I never thought something like this could happen to me or my loved ones.

My biggest concern was that my baby would be born with the virus. However, I didn’t know much about HIV, as I come from a rural area where the stigma is louder than literacy. So, I had to seek help from the nurses at the clinic. Unfortunately, those nurses didn’t treat me with respect either. They looked at me and said that I was reckless for getting pregnant knowing that I am HIV positive. Their words were hurtful and made me feel like I was worthless, unwelcome and unseen.

I haven’t told anyone else except my mom and sister about my condition because of the humiliation I experienced from the allocated health  professionals and the fear of being judged. Their attitudes made me realize that nobody else cares, especially those who’ve never been in my situation. In this world, I have realised that being poor means that your life isn’t valuable. People make assumptions and judge you based on their beliefs, and nothing you say or do can change their minds.

The only mistake I made was trusting my partner without taking the necessary precautions, and unfortunately, my life has been changed forever. However, my baby was born HIV-negative, and I can’t explain how that happened. It was a miracle and we give thanks to God for the divine protection over my daughter. God has been with me all along. Even when things get hard, and it feels like there’s no way out, God gives me strength and guides me towards the right path.

Living with HIV is a challenge that I have to face every day. I started taking ARVs, and my viral load has been suppressed since then. However, it’s not easy to live with the stigma that comes with the virus. People often judge me and treat me differently once they find out about my condition. It’s hard to explain to them that being HIV positive does not define who I am as a person.

My advice to everyone is not to trust others too much, especially when it comes to sexual relationships. Protect yourself. Encourage your partner to get tested for HIV with you before engaging in sexual intercourse. Always use protection, especially condoms, to reduce the chance of getting infected with sexually transmitted diseases. It’s crucial to get educated about HIV and AIDS, as it helps to prevent the spread of the virus.

Living with HIV is not easy, but it’s possible to live a healthy and fulfilling life despite the challenges. I hope my story can inspire and encourage others who may be going through similar situations. Remember, you are not alone, and there is always hope.

By: Anonymous

The post Living with HIV ~ By Anonymous appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

But love, I am so tired.
The betrayal sits inside me
like an elephant on my chest.
Every fight drags it deeper
not just the infidelity, the lies,
But the why.
Why her? Why them?
Was it my body? My brokenness?
Was I not enough, or was she the dream
You couldn’t resist?
I see her face sometimes,
A ghost in my mirror.
She’s beautiful.
And I am here,
stitching my worth back together
with hands that keep shaking.

I forgave you.
But forgiveness isn’t forgetting.
It’s learning to breathe
around the knife still lodged in my ribs.
Some days, I wield it against you…
hurl accusations like stones,
Watch you crumble.
Then guilt swallows me whole.
I hate who I’ve become:
a woman who measures your pain
to see if it matches mine.
That isn’t love.
That’s a war neither of us wins.

But I don’t want war.
I want us.
The way we were.
The way we could be.
I want to believe
In the man who held me through storms,
Who called me his future
long before rings made it official.
I want to trust
that the vows we whispered in the dark
are stronger than the wounds.
Because despite it all,
I still choose you.

Every morning,
every battle,
every stumble towards grace.

So here’s my truth, love:
I am broken.
But I am yours.
And if you’ll still have me…
If you’ll fight beside me
to rebuild what the desert storms
tried to steal…
Then take my hand.
Not as penance,
not as surrender,
But as a promise:
We are one.
Even when it hurts.
Even when we forget how
Seven years have passed.
Then ten.
Let the next seventy be softer.
Let them be ours.

Yours, always

Anonymous

The post The Woman I’ve Become (part 2)~ Anonymous appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

To the first man I fell in love with…

We live far apart now,
But in my heart,
You never really left.
Memories of us warm my days,
And though I miss your touch,
I keep you close in my mind.

Years and miles may separate us,
But my love for you stays true.
Every little thing, a song, a scent,
Brings you back to me.
I still dream of your laugh,
Your hands, the way you looked at me.

Late at night, before sleep takes me,
I imagine your voice,
Your arms pulling me near.
And when the sun rises,
I find myself wishing
just once more, to hear you say my name.

We were so young then,
Two hearts full of fire,
Clumsy and brave in love.
Now, time has changed us,
But what we had stays bright.
Even after all this distance,
A part of me is still yours.

So until life brings us together again,
Remember this…
You were my first love,
And that never really fades.
Wherever you are,
Know that somewhere,
I still hold you gently in my heart.

The post To The First Man I Fell In Love With appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Stay!
The day has gone by
And I still have so much to say
But I’m yet to ask if you still want to stay

Stay! I’m not trying to do things my way
But I will be lying if I say I want them this way

Maybe you can hold me a little bit longer
So it doesn’t hurt
So it doesn’t burn

Funny how it all sounds like a joke
But I’m not playing all I want to ask is,
Do you plan on staying?.

By: Rosalia Ndjimba

(20+) Facebook

The post Stay!!!~ Rosalia manoula appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Alice was the first woman
who told me I am beautiful.

We sat across from each other,
and she looked at me and asked,
“Do you know you are beautiful?”
Before I could answer Alice, she
she smiled and said,
“You are beautiful.
Don’t let anyone else make you feel otherwise.
Especially boys.
If they make you doubt it or question yourself,
remember,
You are beautiful, and I told you so.
If they want to use this as a compliment to undress you,
Remember,
my lips said it first.
You don’t need their affirmation.”

Alice then leaned in and asked,
“Now, has any boy told you so yet?”
I laughed.
Alice gave me a knowing look.
She said,
“Now, here is where you draw the line”.
And she started an education.

I don’t know if Alice still remembers her words,
but I do.
I am beautiful,
because my grandmother said so.

From: JustSam 

Facebook: Just Sam

LinkedIn: Yvonnie Kunkeyani

Instagram: Yvonnie_93

The post Alice’s Words~ By Yvonnie S. Kunkeyani appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Love is like a poet writing a poem –
Crossing out words,
Erasing sentences and lines,
Sometimes trashing the whole page.

He might do this with rage,
Then start again on a new slate
With more love, not hate,
Searching for the right words –
The perfect fit for his heart’s expression.

So don’t stop loving.
You might meet many
Before finding The One.
And trust me, the right one
is worth rewriting your heart for.

Poem by
~ Faith matins

IG: https://www.instagram.com/iam_faitheva?igsh=ZWl0cHN3bjN1M3Bk

FB: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DCPCDPc63/?mibextid=wwXIfr

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The Forgotten Aspect of Pregnancy: Supporting Mental and Emotional Well-being.

Pregnancy is a life-changing experience that brings immense joy and anticipation. However, it can also be a daunting and overwhelming time for many women. While financial and material support is essential, it’s equally crucial to prioritize the mental and emotional well-being of pregnant women.

The Unseen Struggles:
1. Anxiety and fear: The uncertainty of motherhood, fear of childbirth, and concerns about the baby’s health can create significant anxiety.
2. Mood swings: Hormonal changes can lead to unpredictable mood swings, making it challenging for women to cope.
3. Body image issues: The physical changes during Pregnancy can affect self-esteem and body confidence.
4. Relationship strain: Pregnancy can pressure relationships, leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection.

The Importance of Emotional Support:
1. Reducing stress: Emotional support can help alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting a healthier pregnancy.
2. Building confidence: A supportive network can boost self-esteem and confidence, empowering women to take on motherhood.
3. Fostering resilience: Emotional support can help women develop coping strategies, enabling them to navigate the challenges of Pregnancy and motherhood.
4. Encouraging open communication: A supportive environment encourages women to express their feelings, concerns, and fears, promoting open communication and connection.

Ways to Support Pregnant Women Emotionally
1. Listen without judgment: Allow women to express their feelings and concerns without interrupting or judging.
2. Validate their emotions: Acknowledge and validate their feelings, helping them feel understood and supported.
3. Encourage self-care: Support women in prioritizing self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
4. Foster a supportive community: Connect women with other expectant mothers or new parents, creating a network of support and connection.

In conclusion, Pregnancy is a holistic experience encompassing physical, emotional, and mental well-being. While financial and material support is essential, it’s equally important to prioritize the emotional and mental health of pregnant women. By providing supportive and non-judgmental environment, we can empower women to navigate the challenges of Pregnancy and motherhood with confidence and resilience.

I am Mom Sophie Wamagents

Instagram

The post Pregnancy appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

As I reflect on my past, I realize my journey has been marked by moments of lust, anger, and pain. It began when I left for university after a vacation, stepping into a world filled with temptation and choices I wasn’t prepared for.

I found myself drawn to various handsome men who crossed my path. My relationship with Brian couldn’t withstand the strain of my desires, and it ended in anger and violence. It was a bitter chapter, but little did I know, it was only the beginning of a deeper struggle.

Soon after, I became captivated by a classmate, Collin, who reminded me of Ken, my childhood crush. Our secret relationship seemed exciting at first, but it quickly spiraled into something I wasn’t ready for. Despite agreeing to use protection, I found myself pregnant. Fearful of the consequences and desperate for a way out, I chose abortion.

The decision left me hollow, filled with guilt, shame, and trauma. I couldn’t escape the haunting thought: I am a murderer. Collin, instead of offering support, viewed the abortion as merely a solution to his problem. His indifference shattered me further. It became clear that we had both failed to value the life that had been growing inside me.

The aftermath was devastating. Collin started dating my roommate, leaving me with a broken heart and a world of pain. Depression, stress, and trauma consumed me. Yet, even in my darkest moments, I knew I had to heal and move forward.

Looking back, I see that while the experience was painful, it taught me invaluable lessons. Though the journey was harrowing, it has been one of healing, growth, and transformation. The choices I made led me to confront harsh realities about myself and life. Here are the lessons I’ve learned that I hope will resonate with you:

1. Don’t Let Desire Control You
I thought I was in control, but in truth, my lust controlled me. My longing wasn’t just for a man’s embrace; it was an attempt to fill the emptiness caused by rejection and insecurity. I’ve learned to look inward and confront the root causes of such desires. Self-awareness is the first step to regaining control.

2. Violence is Never the Answer
Brian’s anger and violence were a wake-up call. Instead of supporting me through my struggles, he punished me for what I couldn’t fully control. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, especially during your weakest moments. Stay away from relationships that perpetuate harm.

3. Take Responsibility for Your Actions
It’s easy to blame others for our mistakes, but growth comes when we own up to our decisions. I blamed Collin for not caring about our unborn child, but I, too, was responsible for how things turned out. This was a hard truth to accept, but it became a cornerstone of my personal growth.

4. Don’t Settle for Someone Who Doesn’t Value You
Collin’s lack of empathy showed he wasn’t the right person for me. Genuine love is evident when someone stands by you in your toughest times. If a person cannot offer kindness and understanding, they are not worth your time or heart.

5. Healing Takes Time
Healing is a process, not an event. It took time to confront the haunting memory of that day—the day I let go of life in a moment of fear and despair. It’s a memory I wouldn’t wish on anyone. Yet, here I stand today, whole and healed. To those who’ve walked a similar path, I sympathize deeply. Forgive yourself, be patient, and don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it.

6. You Have the Power to Choose Your Path
I once felt like a victim of my circumstances, but I’ve learned that I have the power to chart my course. Regret doesn’t have to define you. You can turn your pain into purpose. I’ve chosen to share my story, hoping it will inspire and transform lives. Life is indeed a master, teaching its greatest lessons in the University of Pain. Your past doesn’t determine your future. Use it as a stepping stone to create a better tomorrow—for yourself and others.

Remember, your journey is unique, and so are the lessons you’ll learn along the way. Don’t shy
away from sharing your story. You never know how many lives you might touch and transform.

By Rita Mukisa
#MotherAfricaEchoes
+256 773807806

The post Aborting a Future: The Betrayal appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

The intensity of my first crush was like a tidal wave, sweeping me up in its powerful tide. I was just a young girl, barely 10 years old, yet I felt like I was drowning in the depths of my emotions. Ken, a tall and handsome boy, became the object of my affection. I admired him from afar, too shy to approach him, yet I couldn’t help but fantasize about him—wishing he would sit next to me in class. There was just one problem: I wasn’t the only girl who liked Ken. My neighbor, Helen, harbored the same feelings for him, and it didn’t take long for her presence to complicate things.

Helen made my fifth-grade experience uncomfortable. Maybe it wouldn’t have been as painful if Ken had defended me. But to my surprise, Ken never came to my rescue—not even once. How could he, though, when he didn’t even know how I felt about him? Or did he know and simply choose to ignore me? Was it my responsibility to let him know? The pressure from Helen became so overwhelming that I eventually gave up on Ken. As I reflect on that experience now, I realize it was more than just a crush—it was a journey of self-discovery and a crash course in navigating the complexities of human emotions. I was caught up in a whirlwind of excitement, admiration, jealousy, and rejection, all of which left me feeling lost and uncertain.

As I grew older, I began to understand how media shaped my perception of love. Romantic movies and TV shows painted an unrealistic picture of love as a fairy tale, where all a girl had to do was look beautiful, and a man would be swept off his feet. The reality, however, was vastly different. Ken didn’t budge an inch toward my advances. I couldn’t help but wonder: Was it because I wasn’t beautiful enough?

My experience with Ken taught me valuable lessons. Back then, I believed that having a boyfriend, like the other girls, would add value to my life. By the time I finished primary school and realized I didn’t have one, it took a toll on my self-esteem. Ken ended up with another girl, leaving me in a space of  questioning my worth. But as I grew and reflected, I learned a life-changing truth: My worth and value come from within, not from any relationship. I don’t have to be someone’s “item” to be valuable. I’m not property. I don’t need anyone else to define my self-worth. I am enough, just as I am.

I also realized that relationships are complex and deeply personal. No two people experience love in the same way, and what works for one person may not work for another. Perhaps Ken’s understanding of love was different from mine back then. How can two people walk together unless they share the same understanding? Looking back on my first crush, I see a young girl trying to find her place in the world. I also see someone strong, capable, and deserving, who emerged wiser from the experience. Helen’s rivalry taught me another important lesson: You cannot force someone to love you. If another girl wants the same boy, let him choose. If he prefers you, he will come to you. If not, it’s his decision, not yours. No matter how much your competitor might try to undermine you, how you respond defines your strength.

Helen accused me of stealing her crush and spread false rumors about me, labeling me as a “loose girl” in front of my classmates. As a child, I felt powerless and heartbroken. But now I know that other people’s opinions don’t define me. My worth doesn’t depend on external validation, not even from someone I might have feelings for. If you’re struggling with self-doubt or facing rejection, I hope my story reminds you to embrace your uniqueness and trust your journey.

You are enough, just as you are. Don’t settle for anything less. Stay true to yourself, and never let anyone else define your self-worth. You’ve got this! You are strong, capable, and deserving of love and happiness.

Now go out there and crush it!

By Rita Mukisa
#MotherAfricaEchoes
+256 773807806

Socials:

The post My First Crush: A Journey of Self discovery appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Dear Crush, this might sound silly or stupid, but I need to get this off my chest
You are the only thing that enters my mind when thoughts of you pop up
The emotion of serenity transcends around me when I hear the mention of your name
Your presence lights my world, glowing like a lamp set on a city hill
And as for your smile, it hypnotizes me like a magic spell

My heart melts when I go through your pictures on my phone
Creating visions of us together
In my mind, I conjure visions of us in one spacious room, weaving a melody of warmth and whispered love.
Our bodies intertwined, developing and birthing melodic and wondrous magical rhythmic music of lovemaking and sensual enticement.

My feelings of attraction are strong, like a man with muscles
They burn and yield fiercely like wildfire, igniting a sizzling, unquenchable, and flaming blaze within my soul
They signify a meaningful affair of intense devotion and illustrious romance
I love you so much that it hurts

Maybe one day, our paths will cross
My heart’s desire is for you and me to meet
So that I could express the undeniable magnet of love towards you
And make you see that this is not some high-school crush
You mean the world to me

But reality struck, revealing only a vivid fantasy
A dream destined to live solely within
The inside part of me is bleeding and hurting, and it’s due to the painful love that is burning and draining my heartfelt energy.
I try so hard to forget about you, but it is impossible to do just that.

You may not know me since I’m an invisible girl with a symphonic dream to love and cherish you.
To plan and develop a bountiful and enchanting connection with you
All in the name of love, devotion, and warmth

I trust that you are blessed and happy with your life
I pray that the girl you’re dating cherishes you well the same way I would have done that
I love you, but you don’t know me because I’m an introverted girl
Though my heart bleeds with love unrealized, I wish you a life of joy and care from the invisible girl who loves you somewhere

With regards
Your Future Lover

POEM BY: Itebogeng Nkoliswa

The post Dear Crush!!! appeared first on Sheevolves.world.