On November 4th we are all going to the polls to vote on many important issues. In California one of those issues is wether or not same sex marriage will be legalized. This is known as Proposition 8 and if passed will insure that the definition of marriage is between a man and a women and that definition will be added to California’s state constitution.
Early this summer a letter was read in church from our First Presidency stating that we should support this proposition by donating of our time and means. I’ve seen and heard of many acts of generosity of time and money to support this proposition. Erik and I have also had the opportunity to go out and knock doors in our precinct informing people of prop 8.
I can’t be completely honest in writing this if I don’t tell you that I had my reservations as this endeavor was beginning. Erik and I have good associations with those that are gay. They are kind, intelligent and generous people who deserve love and respect just as any other child of God deserves. As I prayerfully studied this issue and had the opportunity to go out and inform people in our precinct about Prop 8, I realized that this is what God would have us do. Marriage is sacred and should remain between a man and a woman.
The Proclamation to the Family says:
“The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. ”
In California gay couples receive all of the same civil liberties and rights that married couples do. But if this propostion is not passed it is possible that it will have an impact on what our children are taught in public school, how traditional family life is viewed and valued, lead to conflicts with religious liberty and free speech rights, etc.
Why am I telling you all this? Well, as I attended a recent broadcast shown here in the state of California an apostle of our church, Elder Ballard instructed us to “cast our net”, get the word out and help educate others on this issue. I assure you that this is not just a California issue, if this is not passed the ripple will be felt elsewhere. If you know someone that lives in California, spread the word. If you’re a California resident, make sure you are registered to vote, get educated on the issue, donate your time in helping others understand this issue and vote!
Check out www.preservingmarriage.org this is a website put out out by our church.
Another good website is www.protectmarriage.com.
