Editor:

I am writing because I am deeply concerned by the events that have taken place recently across the country in relation to gay marriage. I am not referring so much to the Massachusetts Supreme Court decision but rather the lengths to which certain city officials and individuals have gone in order to obtain gay marriage certificates.

I am surprised that other homosexual individuals and organizations are not more negatively vocal about the matter, considering that what is taking place is direct disrespect for the law, disrespect for those we have elected to create the law, disrespect for those of us who have taken legal steps to help make the law what it is and disrespect for every law-abiding citizen in this country who believes that order, not chaos, is the true path to freedom.

If these individuals desire to have gay marriages, they should follow the steps that have been put into place to change it in their favor (if that is indeed the will of the people)-not break the law in broad daylight with no trace of shame for their lawlessness registering across their faces. Extreme actions like these only degrade the moral fiber of our country and are a commentary on what our nation has become. It is no wonder that President Bush has taken a stance on the issue and is now voicing his opinion in favor of a constitutional amendment.

This is not a matter of discrimination, bigotry, or hate, as many now try and will undoubtedly continue to try and make it seem. Marriage is an institution that should not be considered so lightly. It is not just about getting benefits. It is not just about living together. It is not even just about two people falling in love. In its true sense, it is about a loving family with the ability to have children, the fabric that holds society together because of a mother and a father raising a child. …We should face up to the real situation that is taking place here and stand up for what the definition of marriage meant to the framers of the Constitution and for what it should continue to mean for us and for those who will follow.

Clark Gunnerson

Staff