Juliano Innocenti, 26
New York City
Diagnosed 1997

What does peace mean to you?
I associate peace with war and conflict. HIV made me realize it’s more complex. Peace is within my own world. I can create peace even amid hostility. I can live in-- and be happy with -- the moment.

Have you found peace with HIV?
I definitely have. It no longer consumes my life, and I think that’s peace.

What about peace and the holidays?
I sometimes feel lonely. I miss my family. My parents passed away, and the family I do have is across the country. Plus, the holiday season can be overwhelming--I work in retail.