There is hope.

About a week ago, in her speech at the National Institute of Health, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called for an "AIDS-free generation." You can view her speech here. The UN estimates that HIV spreads globally at a rate of 7,000 people daily. Yikes. Secretary Clinton urged the world to utilize current technological and medical advances like antiretroviral treatments to diminish the spread of this epidemic. In developing countries where government corruption runs rampant and funding for these programs and technologies are often embezzled and never reach the people who really need it, the future seems bleak.

However, a story that I recently came across reaffirmed my hope in life and all the possibilities for the future. This past June (yes I know I'm a little behind), the first case of what could lead to a great development against the spread of HIV/AIDS was exhibited. A man received a bone marrow transplant in Berlin back in 2007. He now shows no signs of a replicating virus and isn't even taking medications for the virus. Doctors believe this man will probably never have any problems with HIV. There is no way this solution could be applied to all of the world's population infected with HIV, but at least it's a start. This case has encouraged HIV/AIDS advocacy, along with more research for a cure. And while we may not be close to a cure yet, this discovery wasn't possible decades ago, and shows signs for incredible development.

In an age where our lives seem to be occupied with stress and insecurities, it's often easy for us to lose hope. Hope is one of the few things no one can ever take away from you, which is why I encourage you all in these uncertain times to keep your chin up and keep searching for that silver lining, because I promise you, it's there. Happy Monday :)