The Sage Observer

Same-Sex Marriage

On C-Span’s Washington Journal, Saturday, February 14^th, the subject of Same Sex Marriage was a topic of discussion. I just cannot help but comment on this highly contentious issue. The problem, however, in discussing the matter objectively, lies in its complexity—the definition of marriage, the law, religion, bias, prejudice, emotion.

To maintain objectivity, therefore, let us recognize what, to the best of my knowledge, are certain basic facts: (1) There is no mention of marriage in our Constitution. (2) Marriage is a legal and social institution, a traditional relationship between a man and a woman evolved over centuries of which love was not necessarily a criterion (For the most part, love has been a common factor only since the nineteenth century. Previously marriages were arranged by parents—the common motivation being expansion of wealth and power. To refer to an old song, “What’s Love Got to Do with it?”). (3) Neither does procreation necessarily have to do with marriage. A significant percentage of our population lives together and raises children outside of marriage today. (4) Separation of church and state is a matter of law in our nation; and, therefore, we live in a secular state. (5) A couple can be married either in or out of the church as one might choose as long as a legal license is obtained; and, therefore, given that a license is required, marriage is already defined by law.

Let the arguments begin. Should same-sex couples be allowed to marry? Same-sex couples can and already do legally cohabit. Given the aforementioned facts, an answer of yes has to demand a redefinition of marriage in licensing and a change in the law. It should be legislated and not decided by a judge. Judges should judge. They should not legislate. The ultimate decision for the nation as a whole should be secular in nature as we have a separation of church and state and freedom of religion. Your answer to the question, therefore, whatever it may be, should be secular—whatever you believe is good for the nation as a whole. Consistent with this, no religion should be forced to marry a couple within their religion with whom they do not concur. As a Christian, I am also compelled to remind you of one more thought. God gave us all freedom of choice. He gave us the law, but he gave us the freedom of choice to decide for ourselves as to whether we would follow. We, at the very least, should allow others to do the same, decide for themselves.

Ronald Miller

Email me at mtss86@comcast.net