Martin Jones
Despite the fact that I love riding motorcycles fast (on the track), climbing snow-capped peaks wearing crampons, running the marathon distance and beyond , and skiing snowfields of fresh, untracked powder, the most enjoyable and rewarding thing I do is to spend my Thursday evenings with the young people of Positive Images. These young people have become part of my extended family, giving me joy in the present, and great hope for the future. Their energy, humor, commitment to self awareness and self improvement, and the love and respect they show for each other, these things are a constant inspiration to me. For now, my work is to help provide and hold the space in which these things can flourish. I also try from time to time to bring news and excitement from distant places ( the Gay Games in Amsterdam and Sydney come to mind…), to broaden the outlook, and hopefully to be a “positive image” of what an older gay man’s life might be like.
I was born in England in 1943, emigrated to Australia in 1966 and from there to California in 1968. I lived for half a year in France, teaching skiing. Married ( to a wonderful woman ) for 28 years, I had several careers, including owning a cabinet shop and a jewelry repair and stonesetting business. I came out about 12 years ago, and now fix houses and do light contracting for a living.
I believe the best way to prevent the spread of AIDS is to promote self-esteem in young people. I also believe there is no greater love that you can show to a partner than to keep him or her safe from this disease. Finally, if you want peace in this world, work tirelessly for justice.
Email Martin: martinj@sonic.net
Other Mentors
Rich
Franklin
Michelle
Sudina