While I don't claim to have read all entries of this topic (13 pages...jeez), I have definitely read enough to feel I can contribute a somewhat new view to the conversation (though I apologize if this has been said previously).

 Focusing on the "issue," which is the concept of same-sex marriages, not the influences, stereotypes,and religious controversy that surrounds homosexuality in itself, there can be several clear arguments on both sides.

 In the con list, same-sex marriage argues their legal rights without considering so much that the institution of marriage is grounded in the church, which follows the bible, which states homosexuality as a sin (yet also not stating that it is wrong for them to get married-this is simply assumed).

 That being said, no offense meant to the church but whether or not they like it, marriage is no longer the property of religion (civil ceremonies-happen all the time)but more under the dominion of the government (of course the legal rights and such).

 Earlier there were opposing views stated on the government's moral clause and how this affects the laws of the country. It would be absurd to think that ethnics and morality play absolutely no role, or ,otherwise, the court system would be a joke; yet there is a fine line when it comes to certain freedoms denied to some that are admitted to others, a sort of "selective freedom" you might term it as.

 Especially when there is such a dividing line of opinion, we can't simply rule with the majority and leave out so many million others. This is where my "pro" mind comes to action for same-sex marriage. It admittedly seems very peculiar that there is this mindset of gay marriage abusing the sanctity of marriage, but this is ridiculous. In such modern times when divorce and short, Las Vegas marriages run rampant, it would seem refreshing to see to people so committed to each other as to flout conviction in a way, perhaps even losing friends and family in the process, just to marry the person they love and want to have a normal family life with.

 Just in cased anyone is confused, I approve of same-sex marriage. I see no point in apposing something that does not affect me yet means so much to others. I do believe, however, that there can be a compromise.

 With respect to the church and the religious groups who definitely won't quit and who truly believe in that married gays are in abomination in the eyes of the lord, I promote civil unions with all the legal rights of marriage, family, and adoption (which I'm sure has been said already). Unfortunately, to all those who are homosexual but are also very active in the process of religion and are close with God but don't want to give up a lifestyle that he/she was born to, they will simply have to bear it. Life isn't exactly easy for a gay monotheist...

 But what do I know? I'm not gay or religious. I certainly don't have my sights set on politics. I'm simply a person with an opinion, and it kills me to see the deterioration of our country based on what I view as petty argument, perhaps not tidily or easily, solved but simply resolved through compromise, sacrifice, respect, and understanding of those who are different, not necessarily in their identity but in opinion.

P.S. Don't think me naive. I'm sure the situation is far more complex, but I just don't see how.