Disney endorses....

[SlightlyGoofy]

Hi ya Rick!

It was the young Rick that was afraid to be who he was and share the 'real' him (gay or whatever) that I was hugging and breaking my heart over.

Glad to see you all growed (sic) up and thriving and so intelligent too. Anyone who knows that they do not know everything and is aware that they are falliable is (grin) good people in my book.

Ever watch soap operas? I did way back when and the lesson I learned from them, other than you could come back to life, over and over, and even over again, is this - keeping secrets ruins lives, everyones.

What a relief of mental strain if we can talk about what we think, who we are and be heard and hear others.

SG/Linda

 

[skoi]

That is entirely my point. Today, fundamentalist Christians are under incredibly intense scrutiny by the majority. They are being condemned for what is essentially their lifestyle. Their actions, i.e. witnessing, are scoffed. They are victims of the same bias as the gay community. They are not free from any level of persecution yet their are willing to judge and use their belief system to condemn when in fact they should be more understanding BECAUSE they know what it feels like.

As a somewhat socially conservative (but economically liberal) member of a more or less obscure church (we're Orthodox Christians- the ones with the pictures everywhere and the domes on top of the church) I agree with you. We get it from everyone- more liberal people because our church is socially conservative by nature, but especially other Christians who say we're idolatrous, pagan, etc.

This policy is very helpful to Orthodox Christians and Catholics, for whom marriage is considered a sacrament and any marriage outside of the church isn't recognized by the church. So now our kids can have a church wedding, then a Disney wedding because we won't need the license, etc.

And Rick- are the invitations in the mail? You can just email ours. We've never been to a Disney wedding!

Julie

 

[kandb]

I try to live my life asking myself "who am I to judge another man/woman?". I witnessed two men applying for a marriage license in NJ (I work in the health department). I have to honestly say, I felt a little uncomfortable, but as I was leaving the office, I looked at both at them and said "Congratulations". It really made me feel good because I could only imagine what they had to do to get to that point and to be quite honest they looked a h*ll of a lot happier then alot of the hetero couples that come in . I had neighbors who were two lesbians raising children and a friend of mine made a comment on how it was not fair to the children. I disagreed, I would rather see loving people raise a child then some of the cr*p parents that are currently out there. (just read any NY City newspaper, parents who are abusing their kids, throwing them in a dumpster like a piece of garbage). Live and let live. Linda

 

[islandmum]

I do not go to church, I do not believe that the bible is a book that people should live their lives by (its a collection of stories after all - fact) but I do believe in "something" up there and believe good karma to fellow man keeps us happy in life and whatever beyond.

that said - my view is that everyone should be free to love and be with whomever they choose (within legal ages obviously!) and to enjoy every benefit that comes with being a partner ... man or woman.

There is amazing hypocrisy in this world thrown about largely by "religious" people judging others, condeming others (such as gay people) when at the same time preaching "forgiveness and acceptance".

total rubbish! get on with being a nice person, and accept others personal preferences that are legal within our society.

and remember - for those who go on about homosexuality being outlawed in previous years and that law was there for a good reason ...... racial discrimination was law only 30 years ago - and who exactly thinks thats an acceptable law now???? of course its not!

come to Disney, get married at Disney, bring your kids to Disney, gay, straight, whatever. Theres more important blody things in life to worry about!

 

[islandmum]

I almost forgot. This country was founded on Christian beliefs and the seperation of church and state QUOTE]

not being nit ppicky - but this is not the case ..... America was "founded" after a battle of various nations and ethnicities and religions with the strongest army winning - who happened to have christianity as their "nominated" religion. It wasnt about forming a nice religious absed country - it was about establishing power, control and lawfulness.

 

[RACHELSMOM1]

What they were doing before was saying you had to have a valid marraige license in order to have a ceremony there.

What they have done with this policychange, which I find both interesting and opens them up for much criticism, is to say, well marry anyone, regardless if you have a license.

I think its the stand they have taken and the distinction which they have made that could make this an issue. Judges that have taken this issue on in states that forbid the practice have caused much controvery, to think that Disney will get a pass for essentially doing the same thing, regardless of your politics, is ignoring exactly what the new policy is about.

I am not being critical of Disney, nor trying to stamp this out, merely pointing out exactly how far out on that limb I think they have climbed.

It is a financial decision -and think about this:how many people, gay or straight, can actually afford the weddings? A Disney wedding can be quite pricey! I don't expect to see any of them anyway, who will know they just had a gay ceremony after they go the park? You are probably not going to know about it. We do avoid WDW during gaydays each year, but they are in mass then, and I don't want to have to explain their behavior to my kids. But the gay wedding thing, it does not bother me that Disney will do this - I won't know anything about it, I hope.

 

[RickinNYC]

It is a financial decision -and think about this:how many people, gay or straight, can actually afford the weddings? A Disney wedding can be quite pricey! I don't expect to see any of them anyway, who will know they just had a gay ceremony after they go the park? You are probably not going to know about it. We do avoid WDW during gaydays each year, but they are in mass then, and I don't want to have to explain their behavior to my kids. But the gay wedding thing, it does not bother me that Disney will do this - I won't know anything about it, I hope.

Well, when my partner and I do this next year, not during Gay Days I might add, but likely in August, I'm requesting that spot between the Boardwalk resort and the international entrance to Epcot. Some folks will see us gittin' hitched. Wouldn't bother me in the slightest if anyone stopped and watched. I might even give a big, very very happy smile and wave!

Just an aside to say that I am not picking that spot for the visibility. We're pretty private guys, but I just happen to love the space itself.

 

[DebIreland]

Well, when my partner and I do this next year, not during Gay Days I might add, but likely in August, I'm requesting that spot between the Boardwalk resort and the international entrance to Epcot.

Oh yes! I know where you mean. One day on our way from BW to Epcot last year they had that spot all set up for a wedding. It's looked so BEAUTIFUL!!! I remember it well cause my 2 year old was having a meltdown at the time and I was desperately trying to move her away before the wedding party showed up. I remember thinking it was the perfect spot to get married. Although presumably the ESPN isn't allowed to have the music blearing out while the ceremony's going on?

enjoy!

 

[Mean Queen]

I do think this position is more of a stand than many corporations would be willing to take, for that they should be applauded, at least from my viewpoint, and I hope that the new policy serves them well.

I agree that many other companies won't be as brave as Disney in taking a stand for equal rights for everyone, even one that was probably more a financial stand than a political stand. Allowing same sex couples to have a Disney wedding really opens up a whole new market of people to buy the very expensive Disney ceremonies. And I think the more people who can take part in the magic, the better! I wish more companies were as financially sound and forward thinking as Disney.

 

[bethbuchall]

Rick - I did just want to point out what I am sure is rather obvious, but when we discuss religious differences not all differences are born out of hatred. If a Christian walks a path that is true to CORRECT Christian values, they should, no MUST, believe there is a path of salvation that includes but one God. A TRUE Christian will do their best, IN LOVE, to convert others. And, of course, a TRUE Muslim should want the same for their fellow man as their path of salvation involves Allah. Etc.... I guess as a Christian I just wanted to stand up for my fellow believers and point out that when our group is maligned it is often because we are seen as haters of others because of a believe in our one God. It's our belief. And if evangelism would be done correctly it would never be seen as born out of hatred of others, but rather out of immense love.

I know this is off-topic. I've been sitting on this for days, and I feel that I have to respond. I consider myself a true Christian. I do not believe, however, that there is one correct path that everyone must follow for salvation. Jews have their relationships with God. Muslims have their relationships with God. Other Christian groups have their relationships with God. Who am I to say that you must follow Lutheran teachings, or even Christian teachings, in order to find salvation? It seems arrogant to me to believe that you have the only answer and that God should only be worshipped in your way. Others choose not to have a relationship with God or to even believe that God exists. I don't feel that it is my place to tell them that they are wrong and damned to hell. I guess my idea of evangelism is a very quiet evangelism. I do my best to lead the life that I believe God wants me to lead. I teach my children according to these beliefs. I will talk to anyone who wants to talk to me about my beliefs. I pray for anyone that needs prayers. I don't feel that I should be out trying to change the ways that others believe and worship or telling them that they serve God incorrectly. I see God as a loving God, not a vengeful God. If I am wrong, I'll find out eventually.

Beth

 

[bethbuchall]

Well, when my partner and I do this next year, not during Gay Days I might add, but likely in August, I'm requesting that spot between the Boardwalk resort and the international entrance to Epcot. Some folks will see us gittin' hitched. Wouldn't bother me in the slightest if anyone stopped and watched. I might even give a big, very very happy smile and wave!

Just an aside to say that I am not picking that spot for the visibility. We're pretty private guys, but I just happen to love the space itself.

That is a gorgeous spot for a wedding! I wish we were going to be in Disney this August and perhaps had the chance to catch a glimpse of your ceremony, but it just won't work for us.

 

[Kailani6]

I know this is off-topic. I've been sitting on this for days, and I feel that I have to respond. I consider myself a true Christian. I do not believe, however, that there is one correct path that everyone must follow for salvation. Jews have their relationships with God. Muslims have their relationships with God. Other Christian groups have their relationships with God. Who am I to say that you must follow Lutheran teachings, or even Christian teachings, in order to find salvation? It seems arrogant to me to believe that you have the only answer and that God should only be worshipped in your way. Others choose not to have a relationship with God or to even believe that God exists. I don't feel that it is my place to tell them that they are wrong and damned to hell. I guess my idea of evangelism is a very quiet evangelism. I do my best to lead the life that I believe God wants me to lead. I teach my children according to these beliefs. I will talk to anyone who wants to talk to me about my beliefs. I pray for anyone that needs prayers. I don't feel that I should be out trying to change the ways that others believe and worship or telling them that they serve God incorrectly. I see God as a loving God, not a vengeful God. If I am wrong, I'll find out eventually.

Beth

I couldn't have said it better myself!
I feel the same way

 

[SlightlyGoofy]

If everyone felt as Bethbuchall does (and she said my feelings much better than I ever could) it would be the end of the world as we know it.

Instead of saying that our God is better than your God and he told me to do such and such ]if we wanted to start a war we would just have to say 'You got something I want and I'm a coming to get it!"

Might be a tad harder to get recruits for wars and such not to mention to hate our fellow man.

Sounds like good idea to me. What a gift to give our children and grandchildren.

Can't we all just get along?

Slightly Goofy

 

[MommyBoo!]

Well, when my partner and I do this next year, not during Gay Days I might add, but likely in August, I'm requesting that spot between the Boardwalk resort and the international entrance to Epcot. Some folks will see us gittin' hitched. Wouldn't bother me in the slightest if anyone stopped and watched. I might even give a big, very very happy smile and wave!

Just an aside to say that I am not picking that spot for the visibility. We're pretty private guys, but I just happen to love the space itself.

Rick, we're not going in August, but if we were and we saw you, we'd wave back and shout out Congratulations!! Actually, with the number of family members that usually end up joining us on our vacation, you'd have a small cheering section!

 

[MommyBoo!]

bethbuchall and SlightlyGoofy ITA!!

 

[emh1129]

Well, when my partner and I do this next year, not during Gay Days I might add, but likely in August, I'm requesting that spot between the Boardwalk resort and the international entrance to Epcot. Some folks will see us gittin' hitched. Wouldn't bother me in the slightest if anyone stopped and watched. I might even give a big, very very happy smile and wave!

Just an aside to say that I am not picking that spot for the visibility. We're pretty private guys, but I just happen to love the space itself.

Aww.. I read your earlier post and I'm so excited for you. I hope you have a beautiful ceremony

 

[Mickey'sMainMami]

All I have to say is... Go Ricky, your getting married, it's your birthday, go Ricky, wish you happiness, go Ricky!!

 

[RickinNYC]

All I have to say is... Go Ricky, your getting married, it's your birthday, go Ricky, wish you happiness, go Ricky!!

Now THAT was funny!

 

[crisi]

Rick - I did just want to point out what I am sure is rather obvious, but when we discuss religious differences not all differences are born out of hatred. If a Christian walks a path that is true to CORRECT Christian values, they should, no MUST, believe there is a path of salvation that includes but one God. A TRUE Christian will do their best, IN LOVE, to convert others. And, of course, a TRUE Muslim should want the same for their fellow man as their path of salvation involves Allah. Etc.... I guess as a Christian I just wanted to stand up for my fellow believers and point out that when our group is maligned it is often because we are seen as haters of others because of a believe in our one God. It's our belief. And if evangelism would be done correctly it would never be seen as born out of hatred of others, but rather out of immense love.

Not hated, but to me, something as bad - disrespect. By trying to convert me, you are disrespecting my beliefs and my values. And that is pretty much my core - you are disrespecting ME. I'm not sure if I'd rather be hated and respected or loved and disrespected. Typing that, I'm not sure that I can be loved and be disrespected......I think respect is a critical factor in love.

 

[kt_mom]

Okay, well I typed a really long response on my lunch break at home, but I see that the post didn’t go through. So I will try it again.

I think respect goes both ways. When people try to get me to abandon my beliefs which are my core they are disrespecting me. It goes back to what I was trying to get at in my first post, the respect has to go both ways or we all lose.

When people believe strongly in something they tend to believe they are right. But which of us is above everyone else that we get to make the decision on what is right and what is wrong. That’s why they are personal beliefs. I will respect you and let you have yours but you have to respect me and let me have mine.

Yes, some Christians do push too hard at times to “convert” others or telling people that they are wrong. They will push their beliefs in your face. But it goes both ways. It is constantly pushed in my face that I need to be more open-minded or get with the times. I have been made fun of, called names and been totally disrespected for not changing. There are bad seeds on both sides of this. Does it make either side right or wrong, no just human.

Christians are often times viewed in one big lump. And what many people see or know is what makes waves which often times gives a bad impression of the everyday Christian. The same is true with the way some Christians view the Gay community and not only Christians, but other faiths as well, based on what they see in the media whatever picture it paints. But many do not know an everyday gay person. Or they do know one and just don’t know it. Because they have this stereotype they expect to go along with it.

My God is love. He teaches me to love and respect others. I don’t have to agree with them, but I do have to love them. He told us to leave the judging up to Him. And that is how I want to live my life. If I spend my life hating someone or something because they go against what I believe then I am also doing wrong in my God’s eyes. I believe that hate causes more pain for those that harbor it then those they hate. I do believe that there is one true God and one true way to Heaven and I also believe that the Bible is the infallible word of God given to us to guide our lives. But those are my beliefs and I have never thought that beating someone over the head with them would entice them to want anything to do with them. I do believe in sharing my faith, don’t get me wrong. I will invite you to church, you can say no. I may invite you again sometime; you still have the option to say no. But I won’t pester you to death with it or give you some hellfire and damnation speech.

And at the end of my life I am the only one responsible for what I did and what I believe. If I am right then I will all stand before God and face the choices I made in my life. If I am wrong maybe there is no afterlife, or maybe we will all come back as something else, but either way I will have lived my life as a good and loving person.

If gay couples want to get married than so be it. Denying them that does not nothing but fuel hate as far as I’m concerned. The importance of my marriage is between me, my husband and God, not a piece of paper from the state. There are many Christians that disagree with me on that one. That is their choice.

This is a very controversial topic. And I do believe that Disney is taking a stand on the issue by changing their requirements before the state has legalized it. I’m not saying its right or wrong, just that it is a stand. Many gay couples want the right to get married just like heterosexual couples. They believe in the equality of those two situations. Many families don’t and don’t want to have to explain these situations to their children. That is their right just as it is the right of the gay couple to want the ceremony. Who’s to say that one side can have their rights while the other can’t? I don’t care if Disney allows this. Go get married, be happy. It’s your choice.

I’m sorry, I’ve rambled on too long. I’m just very passionate about this. Not the gay marriage issue, but mutual respect of each other’s beliefs. You cannot expect me to respect your belief or opinion when you precede it with a disrespect of mine. I apologize if I have offended anyone, it is not my intention.