A happy day for gays everywhere!

[UrsulasShadow]

Hear, hear, Kevin.

 

[CelticBelle]

Kevin- I believe that you spoke your thoughts beautifully. Thank you.

I too am very excited for at least a few things in the future. It seems that many things are going downhill, but I am glad that younger people are as tolerant as they are. Even the most intolerant of my generation are not as bad as in the past. It is only a number os years before we see a radical change that will liberate people.

 

[3DisneyKids]

This is so true....as a college professor, I am with the 20-something crowd a lot. And the level of acceptance in that generation is truly admirable.

For example, if I ask them to provide an example of some concept we are working on, they will often (on their own) have all sorts of diversity present in their examples. (I teach in the behavioral sciences, so sometimes I teach family behavior...and they will automatically just use a same-sex couple as their family example.) It is awesome to see. Most of them treat it very naturally.

And even those who may disagree or even dislike the reality of same-sex relationships, they accept is as just that...a reality.

Granted, I am in New England which is certainly more liberal than other parts of the country. But presence in the media is coast to coast and that is helpful. Will & Grace was a # 1 hit show. Friends...also a # 1 show, had a same-sex couple. These generations are simply growing up with it which makes it just another part of life.

 

[challer]

The "Faith Based" posts have been so Christian dominated, I had to pony up my Jewish $0.02.

I have read and learned the Bible in its original Hebrew. I know what it says about homosexual relations. I also don't eat shellfish, rabbit or pork or wear fabric blends (of linen & wool). (see previous post) I also eat the kosher meals at WDW.

In addition to my strong beliefs in living a lifestyle guided by the spirit & commandments of the Bible, I also have a strong belief that the Bible stay 100% out of all branches of the US goverment. I think the Bible should have nothing to do with the homosexual marriage debate in the courts, along with other debates (abortion, stem cell, praying in public schools, etc). The only way religion should enter the courts is to protect freedom of religion. Jews have been persecuted and murdered for thousands of years by governments who felt that they were "not in line" with the official religion of the state. Besides running my life in line with Jewish law, I also say a prayer in synagogue every Sabbath asking Gd to bless this counrty and its leadership, and it is the seperation of church & state that makes the US so unique and special compared to the rest of the world and human history.

And with religion out, I can't find any other reason why same sex marriage is unconstitutional. So, I commend California for making a bold - and seemingly correct - move.

 

[wishspirit]

Too true Kevin!

And for the record, im a Thong bathingsuit hater too! But i can live with them, doesn't mean i agree with them!

 

[amyhughes]

The "Faith Based" posts have been so Christian dominated, I had to pony up my Jewish $0.02.

I have read and learned the Bible in its original Hebrew. I know what it says about homosexual relations. I also don't eat shellfish, rabbit or pork or wear fabric blends (of linen & wool). (see previous post) I also eat the kosher meals at WDW.

In addition to my strong beliefs in living a lifestyle guided by the spirit & commandments of the Bible, I also have a strong belief that the Bible stay 100% out of all branches of the US goverment. I think the Bible should have nothing to do with the homosexual marriage debate in the courts, along with other debates (abortion, stem cell, praying in public schools, etc). The only way religion should enter the courts is to protect freedom of religion. Jews have been persecuted and murdered for thousands of years by governments who felt that they were "not in line" with the official religion of the state. Besides running my life in line with Jewish law, I also say a prayer in synagogue every Sabbath asking Gd to bless this counrty and its leadership, and it is the seperation of church & state that makes the US so unique and special compared to the rest of the world and human history.

And with religion out, I can't find any other reason why same sex marriage is unconstitutional. So, I commend California for making a bold - and seemingly correct - move.

I absolutely love your post.

 

[kjetjl]

There are several school districts that have books(s)that tell of homosexual couples with children and how they go about their day and what they believe....is it equally appropriate for a book about a Christian family and how they go about their day and how they believe?

Also, if there is a day of silence to show solidarity for gay and lesbians in schools, should a day of silence for Christians also be allowed? Would it make a difference if Christians chose to call it "silent prayer?"

I personally have no problem with any of the above situations but if one is allowed and another isn't, that can be perceived as discrimination or unequal.

 

[calypso*a*go-go]

I personally just believe in the philosophy of "you do your thing, I'll do mine".

 

[wishspirit]

There are several school districts that have books(s)that tell of homosexual couples with children and how they go about their day and what they believe....is it equally appropriate for a book about a Christian family and how they go about their day and how they believe?

We have those kind of books in schools in England, maybe because we are a more multi-cultural society, we have books on this subject designed for ages 5 plus! The ones ive seen are in a series, one on Christianity, one on Judaism, one on Islam, and for all major world religions based on a family view point. So yes it is entirely appropriate for these books to be in schools.

I haven't seen the ones for homosexual couples, but if it's an issue in that school, they probably have them.

Education is a great thing, and is really positive that these kids get taught about different kinds of people and lifestyles early on!

 

[amyhughes]

In our child's school, it's a Montessori, they don't have pamphlets. But, each child whether of a traditional family, international based family, or same sex family, is encouraged to speak openly to their other class mates about their home, their traditions, their routine. And the reciprocating children are encouraged to ask questions, silly or not, if they have them. Parker, my eldest, has many friends whose families are non traditional and international and he can tell me all about his friends. They are also encouraged not to laugh but as I said to ask questions of each other, not in an accusatory manner, but to help them better understand their differences and what makes them similar.

We are Catholic. But, he knows about Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, and Jewish families even at the tender age of 5. There are a couple of same sex couples that we as a family have come to know well over the last year. It just makes he and his brother very open to the world around them and also more accepting. If you had told me last year that my son would say, "That's her mom, and there's her Mom too." I wouldn't have believed you. Children are very accepting, and if given the opportunity to ask questions if they have them (parents have a tendency to stand in the way and get embarrassed that our child is making someone feel uncomfortable.) they will learn so much more than if we just tuck them away from those that share in their communities.

I think having this type of open communication is great for kids, but it has to be at an age that they can grasp the conversation.

 

[wishspirit]

In our child's school, it's a Montessori, they don't have pamphlets. But, each child whether of a traditional family, international based family, or same sex family, is encouraged to speak openly to their other class mates about their home, their traditions, their routine. And the reciprocating children are encouraged to ask questions, silly or not, if they have them. Parker, my eldest, has many friends whose families are non traditional and international and he can tell me all about his friends. They are also encouraged not to laugh but as I said to ask questions of each other, not in an accusatory manner, but to help them better understand their differences and what makes them similar.

We are Catholic. But, he knows about Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, and Jewish families even at the tender age of 5. There are a couple of same sex couples that we as a family have come to know well over the last year. It just makes he and his brother very open to the world around them and also more accepting. If you had told me last year that my son would say, "That's her mom, and there's her Mom too." I wouldn't have believed you. Children are very accepting, and if given the opportunity to ask questions if they have them (parents have a tendency to stand in the way and get embarrassed that our child is making someone feel uncomfortable.) they will learn so much more than if we just tuck them away from those that share in their communities.

I think having this type of open communication is great for kids, but it has to be at an age that they can grasp the conversation.

Sounds like an amazing school Amy!

Sounds like they are really doing a good job at communication and acceptance.

 

[Chuck S]

There are several school districts that have books(s)that tell of homosexual couples with children and how they go about their day and what they believe....is it equally appropriate for a book about a Christian family and how they go about their day and how they believe?

Also, if there is a day of silence to show solidarity for gay and lesbians in schools, should a day of silence for Christians also be allowed? Would it make a difference if Christians chose to call it "silent prayer?"

I personally have no problem with any of the above situations but if one is allowed and another isn't, that can be perceived as discrimination or unequal.

Being gay is not a religion, being a different race is not a religion, being from another country is not a religion. Those books are appropriate for in class lesson plans.

Books about religion, any religion, should not be "required reading."

One the other hand, I would have no problem with a religious family book being available in a school library that could be read by students, if it is their choice to do so, as long as other religions had books present as well.

The same with a day of silent prayer, it would be a religious observance. Any child can pray silently in school, in fact, voluntary groups of students can pray together at lunch, if they wish, as long as they are not encouraged, or led by, a teacher or other adult on school payroll.

 

[calypso*a*go-go]

Slightly o/t regarding thread subject, but I was pleased to read an article in our local paper yesterday where the courts had ruled in favor on an Army flight nurse that was discharged due to a rumored long term same-sex relationship after serving 18 years in the military. So they "look the other way" for several years and then when she is fairly close to retirement..force her out. What a crock! The Army could not prove that anything she did affected troop morale. The article really didn't go into specifics regarding back pay or retirement benefits and I'm not sure if this is a done deal or if there will be appeals involved, but I hope they continue to rule in her favor.

 

[kjetjl]

.and while there is a definite difference between diagreement and hate....we arent just talking about disagreement. What we are really talking about is powerful disagreement leading to denial of equality.


Kevin

This really made me think....what are my reasons for my opposition to same sex marriage- none of which involve my wanting to deny rights.
I want to ask an honest question of you and those who are gay.

Ever since I heard/read and seen pictures of a group called the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, it has profoundly affected me. It cuts me to the core and offends me deeply. Are you aware of this group? What are you thoughts? I think that for good or bad, it does have an affect on how I view the same sex marriage issue.

I would truly appreciate any responses.

 

[Chuck S]

This really made me think....what are my reasons for my opposition to same sex marriage- none of which involve my wanting to deny rights.
I want to ask an honest question of you and those who are gay.

Ever since I heard/read and seen pictures of a group called the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, it has profoundly affected me. It cuts me to the core and offends me deeply. Are you aware of this group? What are you thoughts? I think that for good or bad, it does have an affect on how I view the same sex marriage issue.

I would truly appreciate any responses.

I would answer that with another question... Should the Westboro Baptist Church have an effect on how people view Christianity? Both are subgroups within their respective communities.

 

[kjetjl]

I would answer that with another question... Should the Westboro Baptist Church have an effect on how people view Christianity?

That was kind of what I was asking.....I feel the WBC actions are reprehensible and do not represent my beliefs at all. I consider them a very extreme, fringe element....I honestly cannot even consider them Christian because their actions are so far from what I believe.

I was wondering how the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence are viewed by other homosexuals?

 

[zulemara]

This really made me think....what are my reasons for my opposition to same sex marriage- none of which involve my wanting to deny rights.
I want to ask an honest question of you and those who are gay.

Ever since I heard/read and seen pictures of a group called the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, it has profoundly affected me. It cuts me to the core and offends me deeply. Are you aware of this group? What are you thoughts? I think that for good or bad, it does have an affect on how I view the same sex marriage issue.

I would truly appreciate any responses.

I have no idea what this group is, but if it's what I'm thinking, it in no way represents the majority of the LGBT community anymore than fundamentalist Islam follower represent the Islam community

 

[Chuck S]

That was kind of what I was asking.....I feel the WBC actions are reprehensible and do not represent my beliefs at all. I consider them a very extreme, fringe element....I honestly cannot even consider them Christian because their actions are so far from what I believe.

I was wondering how the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence are viewed by other homosexuals?

I think you answered your own question.

 

[alebisi]

Ever since I heard/read and seen pictures of a group called the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, it has profoundly affected me. It cuts me to the core and offends me deeply. Are you aware of this group? What are you thoughts? I think that for good or bad, it does have an affect on how I view the same sex marriage issue.

I would truly appreciate any responses.[/QUOTE]

There are sick people that kill in the name of God, do they rappresent Christians? I don't think so...There will be always people that goes to the extremes of everything... I think we don't have to generalize.. good question

 

[The Disney Fanatic]

Hi wishsprit,

Your comments are not offensive at all.

Maybe sometimes there is a fine line between hate and disagreement. While a person may not agree that gay couples are bound in marriage as it was created I would venture to say that many of those same people would never hate anybody who does or the people that are gay. I hope that you do not feel that disagreeing with choices is the same as hate.

As for the intent of the Bible and Christianity, it is not about being nice to people. That is only a small part of it, but Christians are still as human in their nature as the non-Christian. We refer to it as a flesh weakness. Biblical teaching and Christianity (without going into too much detail) is the Word of God. It is an instuction book to help the Christian in our walk with the Lord. It is documented prophecy concerning the Messiah as well as promises that God has made to the entire world.

I hope that makes more sense what the Christian believes about Biblical teaching.

Generally speaking: My comments above are not to debate if one believes in the Bible or God, but to address wishspirit's question.