I started writing another reply on Marc's thread and realized that I was getting well off his topic. It does concern something that is important to me however as I search for ways to deal with the abuse I experienced as a kid.

I honestly don't want to offend anyone but don't know how to be fully honest about myself without violating someone's idea of who I should be.

I am glad that some portions of the country are more supportive than others. A recent poll here in Minnesota found that 58 percent oppose g'y marriages and/or unions, however.

I am appreciative of the clarity on this issue that some Christians have acheived but can relate to what I think are Marc's doubts. I myself remain confused by all the many differences of opinion. It seems that everything in their>

Bro,

My take on the issue is this.

First off, I don't know how to respond, as I'm still dealing with my own sexuality issues, but I've always been pro-gay rights and pro gay marriage/civil unions. I've never appreciated how exclusionary some "Christian" churches are when it comes to this. I believe that Jeus himself said it best - "Love one another, as I have loved you. Forgive one another as I have forgiven you."

You know, I'm kida glad the pols here in Massachusetts are dragging their feet and allowing gay marriages to come into being by default. Better if they had the guts to do one thing or another, but....what if, after gay marriage comes into being and the first couples get married.....NOTHING HAPPENS?

No plagues, curses, fire and brimstone, nothing!

And, what if, after the two years it takes for the amendment comes to a vote, after people see that their straight marriages won't be affected by other peoples marriages.....the amendment gets struck down?

And what if that opens eyes across the country and gets some of these foolish discriminatory laws struck off the books?

And what if we FINALLY throw another antiquated bigotry on the ashbin of history where it belongs?

Optimistic? Sure, but remember, folks felt the same way about mixed-race marriages not-too-long ago?

Never let other people's idiocy sway you from what's right!

Peace and love,

Scot