The title of this post sounds like a children's book. Ooh, we'll make it a pop-up book! This was the first ever protest we've participated in. I'm very glad we went. Marriage equality is something I feel strongly about. I love Aaron. I haven't felt like this with any other person. I think I'm a selfish person by nature. But I do my best to put him first and show him my love. I don't know when we'll get "married", but I know it isn't an "if". I really do want to spend my life with him.
Now I don't need the government's approval to love Aaron or spend my life with him. I don't need same-sex marriage legalized to show him that love. Even if laws and legislature are not necessary, why the intense opposition? Why do people hate the idea of us solemnizing our commitment and having legal right bestowed on our relationship? Why do the religious feel this is an attack on their rights?
This country promises a future for its citizens. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I am a citizen of the United States. I am an honest, caring, intelligent, and fun individual. Why do people care if I want to spend my life with a man?
As an LDS person, I know my religion says homosexuality is a sin. Perhaps by creating laws that solemnize that "sin" LDS people believe they are condoning it. Don't condone it. Don't even love it. But allow me that choice. If it really is a sin, it is only one that harms me. There is no "second-hand gay" to inhale. There are no "driving under the influence of gay" citations. It doesn't harm you in the least. I know it doesn't harm me.
For the other gay people who read this: Remember who you are. You are loved. You are citizens of this great country. You deserve equality.
For my LDS friends and other religious people: Remember the Golden Rule. I would never want to vote to divorce your (or my) parents, grandparents or friends. I respect the lives they live. I know you respect me as a person. Respect me as a couple too.
PS - Reading this may have made some of my friends uncomfortable. Don't be. I'm the same guy. I just think how much Aaron means to me... and I want to protect it.
2 comments:
A very good essay; thoughtful, articulate, and well reasoned. This caught my eye because it bears a strong relevance to my recently released biographical novel, Broken Saint. It is based on my forty-year friendship with a gay Mormon, and chronicles his internal and external struggles as he battles for acceptance. You may find much in the story that touches upon your own experiences and that of may others. You can learn more about the book at www.eloquentbooks.com/BrokenSaint.html.
Mark Zamen, author
Aaron gave me his pride wristband at the BBQ--I bought myself a new one at Pride. Does he want it back?
By the way, tell him he looked adorable in his speedo in the parade. :)
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