Chanda's Secrets

Chanda knew what Mrs. Tafa meant. When people die of AIDS, all sorts of explanations are given to attribute the death to common diseases, rather than AIDS. AIDS is not something to be admitted or discussed. Someone with AIDS brings shame upon everyone around them, including their ancestors.

Chanda had been there when Esther's parents became sick. She saw her mother's first bruise grow, and multiply - before she began covering them with long clothing. She heard Esther's father's cough progress until the hacking became violent. She even witnessed his death, seeing him flail on the floor, and drowning in his vomit. Esther's mother became deranged as her brain tumor became larger, stealing her eyesight. Chanda was there when the doctor told Esther and her siblings that her mother was dying - probably from AIDS. Esther refused the administration of an HIV test. Chanda promised to keep the secret.

Esther had been on the other side of the hedge, and heard Mrs. Tafa's comments about her parents' deaths. She tells Chanda that she would remain her friend even if rumors were spread about Chanda's family, and asks if Chanda would do the same for her. Chanda finds herself unable to answer, until Esther runs away crying. Chanda runs after her and tells her she'll always stick by her, no matter what. They hug, both knowing for the first time that their friendship is strong enough to withstand AIDS.