Sweet Little Lies

1. "LONG lunch, eh?"
2. "Why so many pills?"
3. "How can you wear long sleeves on such a hot day?"
4. "You never go out with us on the weekends!"
5. "How come you know so much about AIDS?"
6. "You're always in the bathroom!"
7. "Why are you so rigid about when you eat?"

The simple, everyday questions and observations of friends, family and co-workers can throw people living with HIV/AIDS into a cold-sweat panic as our minds race to access the "white lie file." Here are some of our favorite fibs:

Favorite Fibs:

1. "Yeah, I had to get my car lubed..."
   ( You were at the doctors. )
2. "It's an herbal formula..."
   ( It's Crixivan )
3. "I'm trying to avoid freckles on my arms..."
   ( Your pic-line might show. )
4. "I do volunteer work on the weekends..."
   ( You're tired on the weekends! )
5. "My cousin died from it..."
   ( You just know... )
6. "Water is good for you -- you're looking a little dry yourself..."
   ( You've got the runs. )
7. "Low blood sugar."
   ( It's Crixivan again. )

   If you're feeling particularly bold or you're just fed up, you can really shock 'em with the truth:
   

8. What's wrong with you?
   IT'S AIDS, STUPID!

Women Alive would love to hear your "sweet little lies". Submit them to us and we'll print them in upcoming issues.