Soapbox Moment

Pardon the intrusion but I must once again step onto my soapbox and vent my outrage over the recent controversy surrounding gays openly serving in the military. Since the beginning of time, military personnel have courageously served, sacrificed, and endured unspeakable horrors in order to fight and honor their respective countries. Without question, gays have served in the military (albeit hiding their sexuality) as long as wars have existed. In all honesty, would actually “being openly out in the military” really change anything? With respect to the United States government, all persons deserve the right to life, liberty and justice. As Americans we should all be entitled to the freedoms afforded to all Americans and should be outraged by those who vehemently fight to discriminate against such persons they deem different than themselves. I personally find it appalling whenever I hear comments such as “hate the sin but love the sinner”. I find such statements not only degrading but downright hypocritical. I personally cannot fathom a God who would pass judgment on persons who are gay. Though many may disagree, I sincerely believe homosexuality is often biological and a person born gay can no more change their sexuality than sprout wings and fly. How fortunate we live in a country where freedom of expression exists. I truly believe our country’s forefathers would be appalled at our current lack of tolerance towards persons of a different sexuality. Furthermore, what type of example as the primary world leader are we setting for the rest of the world? As Americans we condemn dictators who persecute women (via limiting their ability to achieve an education, dress in a manner of their own choosing, etc.). What gives the United States the right to criticize others when we in fact do the same things to some of our very own citizens? Perhaps even more controversial is my firm belief in equal rights for gay people-specifically the right to marry and be awarded the same benefits as heterosexuals who choose to marry (consequently in areas in which gay marriage is legal the divorce rate is dramatically lower than that of married heterosexual couples). Whenever I overhear such hatred and derogatory comments directed towards gays and lesbians I cannot help but think of the “Golden Rule”- that is, “Due unto others as you would have done unto you”. For just one moment I wish each person could experience the pain and discrimination frequently faced by those who are judged and criticized for being gay.