Traditional Marriage or Unholy Chaos?
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By Bonnie Dougherty
Special to The Pilot
Times were clearly simpler in early America, when we had a biblical understanding of right and wrong, what constitutes a family, and God's commandments for living a happy, productive life.
Many actually live that life, but the "enlightened moderns" among us appear to be oblivious to it.
Marriage has been the bedrock of Western civilization. It is society's most sacred institution, as God ordained it from the beginning of time. It is known as the best form of rearing children.
Marital monogamy is difficult enough, but without it, the dangers of disease, divorce, poverty, suicide and crime result in enormous societal costs to the taxpayer.
Post-Christian progressives are not seeking a brave new world, but the same old corrupt one that led Babylon, ancient Greece and Rome to wither away from internal moral rot. We're teetering in that direction.
If you doubt me, just turn on the news. Broken families abound. Stepchildren, as well as illegitimate, lost and out-of-control children, are doing just what God said they would without loving natural parents to offer boundaries, security, love and protection.
President Barack Obama's stated goal was to transform America. The most destructive aspect of his revolution has been against traditional morality. He successfully eliminated the "don't ask, don't tell" policy in the military.
By abandoning DOMA (the Defense of Marriage Act), Mr. Obama is paving the way for the final assault on the last bastion of defense against government tyranny - the family unit.
Few remember that the Bolsheviks, upon seizing power in Russia, promoted free love, abortion and open marriage. Promiscuity and sexual permissiveness were key to their war on religion, capitalism and the family. Destroy the strength of the individual family, and then the government steps in as the surrogate parent. That is the nightmare scenario for America if we do not reverse course.
Homosexuals are not a repressed racial minority, nor are they financially deprived. Activists now admit there is no "gay gene," which eliminates their premise for special rights and marriage.
Without the ability to produce natural children together, why marry? Or is this battle about tax breaks, now provided to the family only? Are rights determined by sex, or by what God ordained?
Those who take God at his word on the thou-shalt-nots know we have jails, judges, cops and armies to keep peace and order in society from dictatorships, murder, theft, rape, adultery, etc. Where does the "rights" bandwagon stop?
Many "rich and famous" have followed this wagon to their premature deaths. The AIDS quilt movement documents thousands of dead. Rock Hudson and Rudolf Nureyev would still be here, as would Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston - all dead before their time from unbridled sex, drugs and alcohol, seeking love, peace and sanity in a frenetic world.
God's way would have saved them. I know; I lived "their way" for a time.
The Marriage Amendment will not restrict private contractual rights from same-sex couples. Because traditional marriage is not "locked" in the N.C. Constitution, already a lawsuit has been filed challenging it. Nothing in this amendment prohibits local governments or the UNC system from providing legal benefits to partners, roommates, family members, or others designated by employees or students, if they choose to do so.
This is not a battle for the fainthearted, but for the faithful! Those who ignore the warnings of Scripture pay a terrible price. You can deny the truth, but you cannot change it. "Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it." - Psalm 127.
North Carolina is the only state in the South that has not protected marriage between "one man and one woman" in its state constitution.
Voters will have the opportunity to vote for traditional marriage during the May 8 primaries.
I pray that all citizens will do so, as the happiness of our children, and the future of civilization as we've known it, depend on it.
Bonnie Dougherty lives in Southern Pines.
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Comments
JimHeim 1 year, 1 month ago
The columnist, while utterly ignorant of the biological underpinnings of sexual preference, nevertheless is just sure that she's found the pipeline to ultimate truth. And having tapped that wellspring of all that is important, is convinced that the rest of us must live by her rules or suffer terrible consequences. I hope they find the gene for that kind of insanity.
As it is, I think we've found the perfect candidate for Congress when that great thinker, Virginia Foxx, tires of making silly, inane and ignorant pronouncements.
SallyLarson 1 year, 1 month ago
Bonnie, you have every right to live the life you choose as does everyone else but neither you or the government has any right to dictate what people do in the privacy of their homes or how they choose to be together. Just when did the government's job include doing the job of churches? I find it weak and lazy that the evangelicals of this country are wining about the state of society and are trying to put the government into the position of doing their work for them. Religion in this country has had all the advantages of a tax free existence, own property and have every opportunity to spread their word to the public. I guess it's not working for them any more so like spoiled infuriated children the evangelicals are now trying to force the government to force their ideas on the whole country. Government's job is to govern over the enormous diversity of people in this country in the most fair and equal way and to force favoritism from one group is self serving and wrong. You need to go back to your churches and find a better way to make a difference in our society if you want to make a difference but stop asking the government to do your work for you.
pacer 1 year, 1 month ago
Our country was founded on freedom of religion so how can forcing the beliefs of one religion be used as an argument for the way laws are made? They have nothing to do with one another. No religion has the right to force their belief system on anybody else. I get so tired of this thought process. You need to review the definition of RELIGIOUS FREEDOM and FREEDOM in general.
kiki 1 year, 1 month ago
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GJohn 1 year, 1 month ago
"Without the ability to produce natural children together, why marry?" What does this say to infertile heterosexual couples?
"Stepchildren and illegitimate children" are lost and out-of-control? Your evidence is what?
"Activists now admit there is no "gay gene,". Huh??? What activists and when did they "admit" this? Shouldn't we consult medical knowledge on this?
The Marriage Amendment will not restrict private contractual rights from same-sex couples. Yes, it will.
YOU. ARE. AN. IDIOT. AND A BIGOTED ONE.
GoldenDreams 1 year, 1 month ago
Bonnie, I am a Christian but I'm also living in the real world. If traditional marriage makes for happy children, why do we have so many unhappy children in those homes? You also say, why marry if you can't have children? How about senior senior citizens? They can't have children but certainly they can marry if they choose to! Lastly, this amendment is not strictly about just gay couples. How about children of heterosexual couples living together? It's possible their parents' rights may be terminated in terms of insurance or important legal decisions. There's a lot to consider! It's not as easy as you are making it out to be.
LSM 1 year, 1 month ago
I just enjoy reading the comments from the ''tolerant'' left, and the way you respond with those that do not agree with you. What great thinkers you are, and able to respond with such class. May Jesus come into your lives soon.
GoldenDreams 1 year, 1 month ago
LSM, I am a Christian and not just in a "going to church sense." I have accepted Chrsit as my personal Savior and lean on Him for my salvation, just as the Bible prescribles. I was trying to make the point of looking out for people in other domestic situations that may lose their rights, notably children. They are the voiceless ones. I don't know if I responded with class or not, as you say, but that is how I feel.
GJohn 1 year, 1 month ago
If you're directing your comment toward me: 1) You're not God, so stop judging, 2) Jesus is already in my life. Seems He got angry and let people know it when He ran out some baddies from the temple - so, I'm not doing too badly if I follow His example and 3) whatever.
snookyone 1 year, 1 month ago
REPEAT AFTER ME: You can't legislate morality. You can't legislate morality. You can't legislate morality. You can't legislate morality. You can't legislate morality. You can't legislate morality. You can't legislate morality. You can't legislate morality.
Bigguy 1 year, 1 month ago
LSM, unless I got this late, where is the intolerance of the left? Were they deleted? If you are for more government intrusion into our lives, I hope you can live with that. That was a totally fact free article by Mr. Dougherty, and by simply calling her out on it was not intolerant.
JimHeim 1 year, 1 month ago
Bigguy, I guess that not agreeing with their positions constitutes intolerance. Seems like a fairly low bar.
jahuphs1982 1 year, 1 month ago
Here we go again. Let me tell you a little story about history. This country was founded on Religious Freedom and that all men are created equal. Religious freedow means exactly what it say's. Freedom to practice any form of religion you chose as long as it does not infringe on the rights of other people whom may not share your views. The Founding Fathers were some pretty smart guys. That's why in the Consitution of these here United States, as stated in the first admendment. "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..." In short this means that the Government cannot make laws based on religious grounds. Them smart and hip Founding Fathers, who were not, though most people think they were, Religious Zelots. They knew that if they didn't separate Church & State it would not be long until the United States would become a Theocracy. So keep your Bible out of my laws. The religious zelots of the US cannot and must not dictate laws for their own agenda. If it means going to jail, I will not obey laws that are Unconsitutional and will fight them with all my heart to get them removed. People need to quit living in the age of Jesse Helms and his croneys. It's 2012 and people can use their own brain and don't need the church to tell them how to live. Church is a Crutch for weak minded people, that are not content with their own being, and need something to validate their lives. I have several Gay friends. They have been better friends than any Bible Thumper I have ever met. I would leave my kids with them in a Minnesota Minute, this is not true of 90% of Religious people I know.
SallyLarson 1 year, 1 month ago
LSM, the point is that it's not the governments job to support any religious belief over another in this country. The evangelical group needs to do a better job if they want to make societal changes within the structure they already have in place and not force the government to do their job for them. My comments have nothing to do with my relationship with God or how I choose to live and everything to do with how this country is run. We are all fortunate to have the choice of our beliefs and to live the lives we have and I think the religious community has become lazy and unwilling to do the real work they believe in by wanting the government to do their work for them.
GJohn 1 year, 1 month ago
To all heterosexuals: Stop and think about when you made a conscious decision to be straight. You didn't, right? You just always were. It's the same for homosexuals. My loving and inclusive God and Father made each of us. Being gay or straight is part of how God made us. Who of us is qualified to call God out for making a "mistake"? Being gay is not wrong or immoral - being intolerant and judgmental is.
And, yes, I need God and my church, but I'm not weak-minded and don't need validation.
jdekornfeld 1 year, 1 month ago
Times were clearly simpler in early America, when we had a biblical understanding of right and wrong, what constitutes a family, and God's commandments for living a happy, productive life. Wow, what a Disney world you must live in.
Are you referring to the fact that Africans were kidnapped, brutalized and brought over here as slaves, or the fact that only White males were allowed to own property, or the fact that women were denied the right to vote, and for the most part were denied an education, as the wonderful things we are missing from our early years?
Also, thanks for denigrating my marriage. I wed a wonderful women 2 years ago. She has already experienced menopause. Since we won't have children together perhaps I should have wed a young breeder. I am sure that I could have made a gentleman's arrangement with some poor farmer for his daughter if I thought she could give me sons.
Nice letter Bonnie.
Nezumi 1 year, 1 month ago
Bonnie, I feel in your rant you've only succeeded in bringing more votes against the amendment; I certainly hope so.
Your historical generalizations are amusing, to say the least.
getreal 1 year, 1 month ago
Bonnie, I don't even know where to begin. I had to put your rantings down 5 times before I could continue reading! You are so bigoted, misinformed, hateful and narrow minded. You are what is so wrong with our country today, "The my way or the highway" mentality that breeds violence and prejudice. You spew unfounded facts and insane generalizations. Why this paper even published your rant is questionable. I am glad you have found "God", the rest of us poor souls will get along just fine with our own beliefs, we don't have to follow yours. If you are so against the rights of others who do not follow your lead, please take in all the unwanted children from corrupt pairings into your own home. Gay partners pay the same taxes as you do, do you feel it is fair for anyone to not receive the same tax incentives as you? Then I guess they should be absolved of paying taxes, why don't you personally make up the difference? As for this resolution, every unmarried couple living in their Mom's basement with their kids will face the same legal threats as the Gay couples.You state that you once followed the wrong path yourself, another mystery solved! I guess the drugs affected your thinking. There is nothing more fanatical than those who never had religion and then have found it! I feel sorry for you, Bonnie. Your world is so full of hate and resistance to change, you are living in the 16th. century. I would bet you voted for Rick Santorum, you both think alike. You are so sad. I will pray for You to find wisdom and forgiveness, you need it!
nothingspecial 1 year, 1 month ago
This country has a long history of enacting laws based upon the values of the majority of voters and the values of the politicians making the laws. If it didn't have that history of making choices based upon values about what is right and what is wrong, we wouldn't have survived the past 230 years.
All of a sudden the left wants that majority to take up the values of moral relativism, which the majority of voters are increasingly coming to realize is causing the slow moving disaster within our society that Mrs. Dougherty described so well. The only folks yelling hate I hear are some of the minority who feel the amendment must be defeated.
Grow up. Adults will always still be able to do whatever they want to do between themselves. But the survival of our society depends upon having a wholesome environment for children to grow into reasonably balanced and capable adults. Not the creation of an America wide Disneyland of adult indulgence.
getreal 1 year, 1 month ago
To nothingspecial (good name), Where do you plan to find the "reasonably balanced adults"? How do you expect the government to control this? How do you guarantee that passing this amendment will allow this to happen? Would it have stopped the father from killing his wife and burning his children to death with him? They were a legally married family. You cannot control who raises children unless you want to control who is allowed to have them. There are no guarantees in life, bigotry won't solve any problems of society, how could you possibly agree with the rantings of a crazy person like Bonnie? You need to grow up, there is no way enforce your ideal of the "perfect world" unless you agree with Hitler's ideals. Who is the majority and how do you know what it is? The only person yelling hate was the original column writer. Why do you think you have all the answers? Yes we have survived the last 230 years but not without war, murder and racism. You are another poor soul who thinks everyone should do as you do.
blessherheart 1 year, 1 month ago
This letter to the editor just shows the ignorance of the author. There are no such thing as illegitimate children. All children are legitimate under God's eyes. What a completely unfeeling, uncompassionate and insensitive person. Aside from that keep writing your letters to the editor as it keeps others aware that bigotry and ignorance are still pervasive in our society.
greentara13 1 year, 1 month ago
WOW! My mind is reeling from the nonsense of this letter. This is exactly why I don't feel comfortable with bible thumpers. So much anger and judgement for other people who you don't even know. Funny, considering how Jesus forgave everyone and had compassion for even the men who killed him. Please focus all that energy on some thing positive.
MikeNC 1 year, 1 month ago
greentara13 45 minutes ago ....WOW! So much anger and judgement for other people who you don't even know.
Ditto from your side of the aisle. I'll be voting for traditional marriage, family values and the current law of NC and Ammendment 1 on May 8th....Mike
JimHeim 1 year, 1 month ago
This column makes me want to get on a ship and sail to a distant shore where I can join a society that believes in freedom of religion. If there was only such a place.
link2eternity 1 year, 1 month ago
Hello JimHeim, and others.
Just posted a new column addressing the "genetic causation" of homosexuality under "reader blogs." This seems to be the prevailing idea.
For those who want to slay human choice on the alter of genetics, this column may be of interest. Consistency doesn't seem to be the strong point of the deterministic argument.
Tony
FightFireWithFire 1 year, 1 month ago
I find this whole affair to be downright depressing. I cannot believe that in the year 2012, that this is what people spend their time arguing about. Gay people want the same lives as everyone else. They work, pay taxes and are granted those rights to "LIFE, LIBERTY AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS" just like everyone else in this country. We are giving foreigners more rights in this country than we are giving people that were BORN here. Pitiful, absolutely pitiful. I agree with jahuphs1982. We are getting way off track if we start legislating laws based on religion.
GJohn 1 year, 1 month ago
Tony - I read your blog and must say that, while well-written, it skids to a stop at the very belief that separates those of us who believe that sexuality is genetically predetermined from those of you who believe it is a "behavior".
Sexuality isn't a behavior, it a characteristic of the person. Behavior is what you do with it, how you act. Consider having green eyes; that is a genetically predetermined characteristic. Now, the person can wink those green eyes, frown with them, display warmth, cry with them, or try to change the appearance of them with colored contacts. But he/she is green-eyed and always will be and shouldn't be judged by others who don't like green eyes. They shouldn't be encouraged to "fix" their green eyes, deny them, or be discriminated against because of something they didn't choose. They should receive the same medical and insurance benefits as blue-eyed and brown-eyed people. If you can't understand or believe this, we'll have to live with it. But one day, Someone at a Pearly Gate may ask you who gave you the authority to belittle green eyes - or homosexuality.
blessherheart 1 year, 1 month ago
http://www.publicpolicypolling.com/pdf/2011/PPP_Release_NC_032912.pdf
lakeview 1 year, 1 month ago
JimHeim 2 hours, 7 minutes ago This column makes me want to get on a ship and sail to a distant shore where I can join a society that believes in freedom of religion. If there was only such a place.
Need help packing??
MikeNC 1 year, 1 month ago
JimHeim 2 hours, 31 minutes ago ...This column makes me want to get on a ship and sail to a distant shore where I can join a society that believes in freedom of religion.
You may go now....Mike
SallyLarson 1 year, 1 month ago
Nothingspecial, you are assuming that the majority of the population is like you but we are all so insulated from the real world here in the protective confines of Moore County. There is so much else out there with a diversity of religion and cultures we can't assume to govern all with the foundation of Christianity, our government's job is to establish laws that are fair and impartial and fit the majority. As much as you may wish the world was the way you'd like, the reality of time and changes make that impossible. You are however able to live the life you want with your own rules and can find piece in that.
getreal 1 year, 1 month ago
Hey MikeNC, go ahead and vote against it, I can only hope your daughter doesn't get pregnant out of "wedlock". The law can come after her too. Maybe you should read the entire amendment BEFORE you vote against Gays, it isn't only about them. Another uneducated vote, another stupid amendment in a very stupid state that let's the bible thumpers try to decide what is best for all and supports forced annexation without the freedom to vote for or against it, all backward ideas, a sad state of affairs, very depressing.
nothingspecial 1 year, 1 month ago
Sally, that's exactly what I'm saying/assuming -- the majority of Americans DO share most of my views and the history of this country is that people who make laws follow their own values in making those laws. They especially have done this following values that are contrary to the moral relativism values that are becoming popular with a growing number, but still a minority of Americans.
Outstanding commentary related to this topic.
One of many key quotes:
"Choices conflict, so the Triumph of Choice means nothing unless we know which choices triumph. Liberalism tries to be principled, and its moral skepticism means it can’t give the nod to the choices that are simply better. It wants a neutral solution, so it ends up appealing to technical effectiveness and the “do your own thing” attitude implicit in the triumph of individual choice over collective will."
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Item/1265/tyranny_religion_and_the_fight_for_freedom.aspx
MikeNC 1 year, 1 month ago
getreal 7 minutes ago ...Hey MikeNC, go ahead and vote against it
Quit your trickery....I'm voting FOR Ammendment 1. It goes way beyond religion and Bible thumping. It just happens to be the right, moral and family valued thing to do. If folks want the benefits from being married; then get married according to our current laws. If others want to live together, etc, etc...that is fine as well. Nobody is infringing on that. As far as daughters go; there are consequences for your actions. Many learn valuable living skills because of what they do and accept or not do because they weigh the consquences prior to doing. Everybody is not looking for a handout because of their lack of good judgenment or behavior....Mike
lakeview 1 year, 1 month ago
Hey Getreal, JimHeim etc... Here's a fair idea. Why don't you vote the way you want and let everyone else do the same ( vote the way they want)? Sorry but just because you have an opinion on a subject, it doesn't mean everyone else has to agree. If you continue to believe that everyone has to share the same opinion, good luck finding that distant shore.
MikeNC 1 year, 1 month ago
Jim Heim....Have you left yet?
MikeNC 1 year, 1 month ago
Good post Lakeview!! Mike
lakeview 1 year, 1 month ago
SallyLarson 45 minutes ago Nothingspecial, you are assuming that the majority of the population is like you but we are all so insulated from the real world here in the protective confines of Moore County.
Huh??
Bentpan 1 year, 1 month ago
You ever notice limousine liberals like Mr. Heim are always talking about leaving the USA ( because apparently they view Americans as a bunch of ignorant, backwards, racist, homophobic, Islamiphobic Bigots) but then they never leave. Why is that?
MikeNC 1 year, 1 month ago
Hey Jimheim....Good Bye !
Dramatic 747 Take Off From Bournemouth, Hurn Airport - Plato Video - 18th November 2002 by PlatoVideoFilms
Bentpan 1 year, 1 month ago
BTW for those who haven't read NC Amendment 1,( most of our liberal friends judging from their comments) here it is:
Sec. 6. Marriage. Marriage between one man and one woman is the only domestic legal union that shall be valid or recognized in this State. This section does not prohibit a private party from entering into contracts with another private party; nor does this section prohibit courts from adjudicating the rights of private parties pursuant to such contracts
visigrad 1 year, 1 month ago
Thank you Bonnie....Bon Voyage Jim.....and I will keep you in my prayers.
getreal 1 year, 1 month ago
Hey lakeview, What the heck are you talking about? This thread is about the stupid letter Bonnie wrote. I don't think everyone should think as I do and I certainly don't think everyone should think as you do! I don't want to pigeon hole people into what I think they should be, but you sure do. I hate to tell you this, but people will do what they want no matter what you or Bonnie think they should do. Don't twist my words. This is a free country, everyone should be treated equal, (yeah that really happens!) Everyone who pays their fair share of taxes deserves the same incentives as everyone else. You can't take away someone's rights because you don't agree with their gender selection. It is none of your business, but you think it is, THAT is your problem! Vote as you choose, it's your right. Leave others alone and let them decide what they think is right! You said it yourself, "if people want the benefits of being married then let them get married", well, then let all who want to marry get married. I am for freedom you are just dumb.
getreal 1 year, 1 month ago
Hey MikeNC, enough already, you sound like a 4 year old. Put your keyboard away and go night, night.
JustThinking 1 year, 1 month ago
Can I marry grandmother? She has really good insurance and I love her alot!
lakeview 1 year, 1 month ago
Getreal so you are all for expression of rights except when someone that disagrees with you expresses so. ??? And when they disagree they either write stupid letters, start sounding like a 4 year old or they're dumb. Sorry sir. Its actually you that is sounding a bit "young" on the matter.
Let me ask you one question Harleyman, getreal or whoever, how do know how I'm voting? I may feel the same way you do. I'm simply saying that Bonnie has the same rights to express her beliefs as you have to express yours. And by the way, where did I say
(You said it yourself, "if people want the benefits of being married then let them get married",)
Good luch finding that quote.
pacer 1 year, 1 month ago
When did this become so directed to Jim Heim? Chin up Jim, pay the haters no attention. A really cool guy once said, "Don't feed the trolls!" Have a great day :)
jamjam 1 year, 1 month ago
You know, the bible is no more than a BOOK. It has been changed so many times the content is far from the actual events of that time. Faith is one thing, but religious blind faith is for fools. How many times have the religious authorities misled the faithful. History is full of examples. So, if you choose to invade someones life, it is no different than an inquisition to root out Evil. sick, sick people.
JimHeim 1 year, 1 month ago
Turns out religious liberty in this world is as scarce as unicorns. The Founding Fathers were utter failures.
JimHeim 1 year, 1 month ago
pacer, I knew what I was getting into when I decided to post under my name. Anonymity, while cowardly, is certainly easier. If you want to be a Democrat in this county, you'd best have a thick hide.
NCKen 1 year, 1 month ago
So, let's get this straight ... 96% of North Carolinians are expected to scuttle the definition of and criteria for marriage, one that has held society together for 5000 years, so that 4% can practice whatever deviant behavior with whatever life form is fashionable at the moment? On top of that, we will be required to fund this evolutionary dead end life style? Not with my vote, and not with my tax dollar!
MikeNC 1 year, 1 month ago
NCKen 7 minutes ago ...So, let's get this straight ...
Yes NCKen...according to Jimheim and others against Ammenndment 1; that's what they expect and want. Nice level headed comments from yourself Ken...Mike
nothingspecial 1 year, 1 month ago
Jim, as a whole I think you will be hard pressed to find groups of religious folks who are tyrannical as you seem to be implying if I read you correctly. In fact they are usually the polite portion of society. But of course they are called hateful and bigoted when they enact laws according to their own set of values (like everyone else does, only their values are considered either kinder or more relative).
And I'm perplexed by your statement that the founding fathers were utter failures. Again, I challenge you to find a nation with more religious freedom that America.
AM910 1 year, 1 month ago
Your tax dollar is being wasted by the Republicans that introduced this bill. Instead of helping the economy or creating jobs, they decided (well, a dead guy did) to create a diversion from those issues so the citizens of NC could duke this out at the polls. Gays do not pose a threat to society and every one posting on this board knows one. A small group wants happiness and equal rights. It's not about religion, it's about people.
OldSpook 1 year, 1 month ago
Your right AM910, it is about the 96 percent of the population who are not homosexual and respecting our rights and institutions. And as for wasting money, I don't see the current POTUS helping the economy or creating jobs despite claims. How many of us are better off today than we were 4 years ago?? Yea, not many but I do note that crime is certainly up. Maybe it is time we voted in a businessman to try and run this country.
Bentpan 1 year, 1 month ago
NCKen straight, to the point and devastatingly accurate, great post, and of course when it passes the far left will say it's because there was low voter turnout or perhaps it's just because North Carolinians are a bunch of ignorant redneck rubes.
Hembloche 1 year, 1 month ago
Not all of of em Bentpan, just people like you. Keep on defending "traditional marriage" with its 50% divorce rate, infidelity and spousal abuse. So much to be proud of there. This all boils down to people's hatred of gays. You can try to spin and sugar coat it all you want, that's all it is. Eventually this will be a moot point as homosexuals will be afforded all the rights straight people seem to think should only belong to them so you'll all have to find another group to try and deprive of rights. This same debate's been goin round and round on this site for way to long.
blessherheart 1 year, 1 month ago
Excuse me but the gay community pays taxes also.
Bentpan 1 year, 1 month ago
Hembloche I and a majority of NC citizen are going to vote FOR Amendment 1 . Not because we hate gays but because it is neither a normal nor a healthy lifestyle, but the real truth of the matter is that while Amendment 1 states the state of NC won't recognise homosexual marrage, it does not mean homosexuals can't marry, only that this state won't recognise that marriage because a majority of its' citizens view it as wrong. BTW rights in any society are what are agreed upon by that society as a whole, isn't it odd liberals demand democracy untill it doesn't go their way.
AM910 1 year, 1 month ago
Bentpan (or as I like to say Getbent): you hit it just right. NC kept electing Jesse Helms because he was "our a**hole". I'm a native and never understood that train of thought, but I'm glad I don't. I'm glad I can think for myself and not base my votes on hate speech and ignorance.
JER 1 year, 1 month ago
I would like to tell MikeNC that his vote for the amendment will be null and void, cancelled out by my vote against it (and my wife's vote will do the same for that of his wife, Diane). For those on here who feel as I do, pick out one of the "pro" posters and let them know that you intend to make their vote null and void as well.
getreal 1 year, 1 month ago
To NCKen, What do you mean by "On top of that, we will be required to fund this evolutionary dead end life style?" Just HOW are YOU funding their lifestyle? Gay couples pay the same tax percentage as you! You are so confused. Think about this, they adopt unwanted children and most do not have children. Do you know how that benefits you? They don't fill the schools with tons of kids that the tax payers have to pay for. They pay school taxes and do not take advantage of the school system. YOU save money that way! They pay taxes, live and work in NC, support businesses and yet they cannot marry and enjoy the tax incentives you enjoy, how on earth do you fund their lifestyle? They FUND YOUR LIFESTYLE! This is about the hatred of gays and the fear of anything different form what most backward people are familiar with, you hide behind the bible and use it as an excuse to spread ignorance and bigotry, I feel sorry for you. I will be be voting against it and I will cancel out your vote. Go to your chosen church and pray for guidance and understanding..
getreal 1 year, 1 month ago
To Bentpan, You said "BTW rights in any society are what are agreed upon by that society as a whole". So no matter if it is right or wrong we all jump off the roof together because the "majority" thinks it is the right thing to do? Hitler had the "majority" were they right? You can vote anyway you want it is a free country, just keep your nose out of other's business and don't try to take away other's rights.This state is embarrassing and so are all the haters in this thread. I can only hope none of your loved ones realize that they are gay, none of you could handle it, so sad. I thought religion taught love, forgiveness, understanding and that god loves all. I guess that is a crock from the opinions shared here. I guess we will have to wait and see how it all turns out. If it passes it only reinforces my opinion of the south.
Bentpan 1 year, 1 month ago
getreal "I guess we will have to wait and see how it all turns out. If it passes it only reinforces my opinion of the south."..............Then leave, take AM910 and Mr. Hiem with you, I'm sure you'd be much happier somewhere with no moral standards what so ever. While North Carolinians are tolerant, we can only stomach lowering our standards so far, there comes a point when society has not only the right but a duty to say NO and the truth is we passed that point quite a while ago. This really is a case of the morally and mentaly impaired calling the rest of society bigots because we don't accept their warped vision of right and wrong.
Bentpan 1 year, 1 month ago
JER 5 hours, 50 minutes ago I would like to tell MikeNC that his vote for the amendment will be null and void, cancelled out by my vote against it (and my wife's vote will do the same for that of his wife, Diane). .................................Jer didn't you tell us a few months back you no longer reside in NC, in fact I thought you didn't even live in this Timezone, so how are you and your wife to vote on a NC ballot?
MikeNC 1 year, 1 month ago
You took the words right out of my mouth Bentpan. Looks like JER is making a strong case FOR picture ID here in NC as his intentions to vote here appear to be fraudulent....Mike
JimHeim 1 year, 1 month ago
nothingspecial, It's not enough that this country isn't as bad as others. I want it to live up to the words in the Constitution. Not bad is not the same as good. Sadly, that's too much to ask.
JimHeim 1 year, 1 month ago
Bentpan gets right to it. He knows how we are to conduct ourselves. The rest of us are just ignorant, immoral savages. Without his wisdom, we would just be animals.
To bentpan, liberty is his group being able to tell all others how to live their lives. We should be grateful he lives among us to teach us right from wrong.
MikeNC 1 year, 1 month ago
Jim Heim....It happens to be the current law of the land. If the voters change that on may 8th, we will all live with the new law. If it remains as is; will you live with that constitutional law? If voters use the facts presented, common sense and decency and vote with their conscience as well...Ammendment 1 will pass. Those who believe in other forms of partnership and household arrangements will still be able to do the same as they are now doing. Nobody is trying to change any of that ...Mike
PS....I'll remember your words...." I want it to live up to the words in the Constitution." as you address other isues.
Courseaire 1 year, 1 month ago
If Amendment One passes, that in itself does not make it constitutional. It will be challenged and won't become constitutional until SCOTUS rules in favor of it. What most people fail to realize is that it's not just the legal acceptance of partnerships that is sought, but the financial security and benefits that come with it.
jamjam 1 year, 1 month ago
well Courseaire, there's a first time for everything and I actually agree with you on this one. the same applied to health care and we see whats happening there. our government isn't broken. it's working just fine. I still can't believe I agree with you.
katimae 1 year, 1 month ago
Please vote on May 8. All this bluster will be for nothing if you don't complete that simple act. Be grateful you ave the freedom to decide. VOTE your opinion!!!!
JimHeim 1 year, 1 month ago
I want it to live up to the words in the Constitution.
Would that be the three-fifths of a person Constitution? The white male only vote Constitution? Would that be the original Constitution, or the one repaired with multiple amendments.
Amendment one changes nothing with regards to gay marriage. It has been illegal in this state for over a hundred years. What it will change is life for military widows and children of unmarried parents. I guess they should have chosen their parents (and mates) more wisely.
Those who feel they have the inside word on how the rest of us should live will vote for this ghastly amendment. People whose hatred of those who live differently will vote yes. People who think that freedom belongs only to them will support this measure.
The intelligent, compassionate, freedom-loving individuals will vote resoundingly no. We'll soon see how many of us there are.
Guy_Forks 1 year, 1 month ago
I'd just like to point out to all that in the early history (Post Christ, pre-holy bible-Nicaea) of the Christian faith it was considered sinful to take a wife. Many early Christians advocated for the prohibition of marriage. At the time women where considered abhorrent creatures of sin and represented the devil in the struggle of the mortal man's soul.
The catholic church was largely silent on abortion, and at times even advocated it during the frist half of it's history.
And of course just like the pro slavery south, and you today, they all believed they where commanded by God.
Remember: Ecclesiastes 1:9
Courseaire 1 year, 1 month ago
In light of current events and recent articles in the Pilot, would this Amendment make it illegal for a Hoodie to marry a non-Hoodie in a Gandsta style ceremony?
Bentpan 1 year, 1 month ago
JimHeim 6 hours, 3 minutes ago Bentpan gets right to it. He knows how we are to conduct ourselves. The rest of us are just ignorant, immoral savages. Without his wisdom, we would just be animals.
To bentpan, liberty is his group being able to tell all others how to live their lives. We should be grateful he lives among us to teach us right from wrong..................................................
Really Mr. Heim that you of all people should make this post, you've got to be the biggest hypocrit of all time
lakeview 1 year, 1 month ago
Guy_Forks- What??? That's a joke, right?
lakeview 1 year, 1 month ago
'If it passes, it only reenforces my opinion of the south." -Getreal ( I think Harleyman hated the south too)
Anyway Getreal- Do you need help packing? Us dumb southerners don't want to force anyone to stay here.
JER 1 year, 1 month ago
Dear Bentpan and MikeNC: I never said I no longer resided in North Carolina (go back and check), I said that I was out of the state. Did it ever occur to you two that I could reside in North Carolina and have another home in a different part of the country where I spent time (say like in the winter?). Of course it didn't ever occur to you because that would require use of your brain (I use the singular "brain" as a compliment to you both...others may contend that you don't have a full one between the two of you). I digress. Here is wishing that someone steps forward to pledge their "no" to offset the yes vote of Bentpan.
Guy_Forks 1 year, 1 month ago
Lakeveiw, no it's not a joke, but I may be wrong on the exact timing of the first statement. Though it is the root of the celibacy of the priesthood. As for the second, well read a history textbook it's all there. Nothing is new, for the bible tells me so.
Hembloche 1 year, 1 month ago
@ JER- You've got my no to offset Bentpan. @ Guy_Forks - You can't expect these "good christians" to know the history of their religion. C'mon now.
lakeview 1 year, 1 month ago
Hembloche- I guess that means you can provide proof to back those statements. I will be waiting.
Guy_Forks 1 year, 1 month ago
Hembloche I expect that like all who have faith, including me, they are blinded by it. This is human nature, and as much as the do-gooders try, inescapable.
Bentpan 1 year, 1 month ago
Hembloche 7 hours, 14 minutes ago @ JER- You've got my no to offset Bentpan. You do understand, math is not on your side, there are many more of us than you, we are the generally ( myself excluded ) the Silent Majority and this May and Nov. you're going to see how motivated you have made us to protect our country.
JustThinking 1 year, 1 month ago
Guy-Forks -what you don't know about the priesthood is alot!