Steven remembers when surviving HIV meant simply enduring.

The medications keeping him alive often left him doubled over with nausea and chronic diarrhea. Pills had to be taken at precise times, sometimes on an empty stomach, sometimes with food. Switching to a new drug carried its own risk because if it failed, there might not be another option. 

Paris may be known as the City of Lights but experiencing it beside someone you love gives those lights an entirely different meaning.

Wilton Drive gallery owner Claudia Castillo says her studio, with its many rainbow-inspired artworks and prominent paintings and sculptures of the male form, displays LGBTQ pride all year long. 

As a teacher, writer, and someone who is constantly balancing deadlines, grading, emails, and everyday responsibilities, I sometimes forget how important it is to simply pause.

Some birthday celebrations are packed with schedules and activities. Others are about slowing down, taking in the ocean air, and spending quality time with the people who make life sweeter.