I cannot understand what it is like to be gay. I do not understand what it is like for the world to tell me that the love I have for my signifigant other is wrong or sinful. I do not understand what it is like to have the government not allow me to enjoy the same benefits that heterosexual couples do because my companionship doesn't fit the social norm. I don't know if homosexuality is right, wrong, sinful, or part of God's plan. But there are things I do understand.
I understand the principles of freedom and as the LDS Church teaches - free agency. I understand that God's plan is to not make us choose righteousness but to allow us the opportunity to choose good or evil. And to do so requires that we individually determine what is good and what is evil. I understand the importance of the separation between Church and State. And I know that if it did not exist in this country I would not be able to practice my religion; as peculiar as it is to so many.
I understand the only way for me to truly protect the sanctity of marriage is to work on my own, not to prevent others from enjoying this union. I understand that instead of donating time and money to a political proposition, focusing more attention on my significant other protects the sanctity of marriage. I understand that allowing hate and bigotry into my heart does not protect the sanctity of marriage but will destroy it.
If there is one good thing that has come out of Proposition 8 it is the conviction it has brought to the hearts of heterosexuals like myself that are willing to do all in their power to fight for the civil rights of the gay population. My apology is a promise that I will be your advocate and I will fight for you. Whenever a Proposition for or against gay marriage is brought to my State I will be on your side; and I believe yours is the right side.
- D
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
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Dear D:
ReplyDeleteIt's actually pretty simple to understand how gay people feel. Assuming you're married, just imagine the face of your wife, and imagine all the ways your love for her makes you feel, all the good things it makes you want to do and be and aspire to. Then simply replace that face with the face of someone of your same gender, but don't change any of the feelings.
That's about all there is to it, really.
I believe what D meant was:
ReplyDelete"I do not understand what it is like for the world to tell me that the love I have for my significant other is wrong or sinful. I do not understand what it is like to have the government not allow me to enjoy the same benefits that heterosexual couples do because my companionship doesn't fit the social norm."
Dear D:
ReplyDeleteAs a straight ally in favor of equal rights for all (and a woman whose parents hold temple recommends and were appalled at the Church's involvement in this issue), I thank you for your forthright and heartfelt comment. I really do appreciate you.