"The "right" to marry is created by society."
Agreed. Society defines what constitutes the contract between two people that is commonly referred to as "marriage" as well as the legal rights and responsibilities that go along with it. It is not a "natural" or "inalienable" right, but simply a legally created entity much like a corporation is a legally created entity.
"I simply think that any right created should be open to as many people as possible,"
As the creator of this legal entity - a "married couple" - society gets to define who is eligible for such legal status and under what conditions. Society, via government, issues a "marriage license" that allows for the creation of a "marriage".
"and I see no valid reason for limiting that right in the case of same sex couples"
Nor do I, but I'm not willing to circumvent the democratic process and try to force society to redefine this legal entity called marriage. It is up to those in society who want it redefined to persuade others and work through the system for change. They might start by realizing that, the word "marriage" is not the thing they should be fighting over. As far as government and the law is concerned, all marriages, whether the contract was "closed" in a church, temple, forest, beach, backyard or courthouse, are nothing more than a contract between two people that is recognized by the state - all marriages are "civil unions". If society is resisting change because of their religious beliefs attached to the word "marriage", then those pushing for change are fools to insist on using that word as that only diminishes their chances of success. In other words, stick to the civil or secular, which is the realm of government, and stop insisting people change their belief system.
"since I don't find "comfort" for people who want to discriminate, or the tradition of discriminating, a valid reason for state and federal laws."
Since sexual preference is not a protected class under the constitution, society defining civil marriage based on society's own standards and beliefs is not discrimination just because some don't like the definition. Society puts all sorts of limitations on what constitutes a legal, or illegal, marriage. For example, polygamy is illegal in all states. Yet some people hold beliefs that allow for or even encourage polygamy. Is denying them a multi-spouse marriage license discrimination? I don't think so.
The bottom line is that since society created marriage, if you want it redefined, make your case to society to change its collective mind. Don't try to impose your will on them by judicial fiat. And certainly don't scream "stupid bigot" at anyone who won't go along with you. That's not the way to get what you want in a democratic society.
PS: When I say "you" or "your", I am speaking generally of proponents of gay marriage, not you personally. |
