Cornelius walked toward me wearing his Yamaka and scarf with Hebrew icons. When I approached him he flashed a huge smile and said, “Of course, of course.” Cornelius is homeless, but is grateful for everything in his life.
“I used to be homosexual. My boyfriend gave me AIDS, Hepatitis C and Herpes, but God cured me of the AIDS and Hepatitis C. Do you know why? Because in my heart I hold no hatred, only positive thoughts about everyone, including the man who gave me those diseases. God smiles on those who know no hatred. He rewarded me.” Then the Lord said, “You are now Jewish. So here I am.” His speech is punctuated by laughter and huge smiles. “The Lord gives back what you put out.”
