Finding the silver lining

My post this year said that I will focus on the little things - the positive little things. Today has forced me back to that. I will not judge the people that voted for amendment one. That would make me a hypocrite. I only hope that they voted with the conviction and knowledge that I did. I am celebrating the fact that I have the technology, self confidence, conviction, and a society in which I can express my opinion. Years ago in North Carolina I would not have questioned whether or not this amendment would pass, I would have just known it would. So, today I am happy in knowing that so many of the people that I hold dear had a chance. A really good chance. There was no landslide either way. This means that we ARE moving forward. I am sending out my virtual arms around my friends that know I love them. There are no leaps and bounds, just for now baby steps.

Amendment One makes me sad.

I have gone back and forth on whether or not to vocalize my opinion on Amendment One that will be up for vote in the state of NC on May 8th. Mostly because I have been uninterested in hearing responses for "the other side" for Amendment One. However, my moral stance has always been to stand up for what I believe is not necessarily right, but for what I believe is unnecessarily cruel, hurtful, or narrow minded. I believe Amendment One is unnecessarily cruel, hurtful, and narrow minded.

Most of all, Amendment One makes me sad. I am embarrassed to live in a state that has actually gotten this bill far enough along to even be up for a vote. I am sad that it has divided congregations, neighborhoods, and friends. I am devastated that my son was born into an age that still lacks tolerance for homosexuality. Guess what folks, it's here. It has been since early human existence. It exists now- in both animal and in human relationships. This is not up for debate. It is a fact.

My path in life has been so blessed. I have met people from so many races, religions, nationalities, and yes - sexual orientations. Every person that I have EVER met that is homosexual has enriched my life. Many of them have taught me how to love and embrace life in all of its fullness along the way. Others have been more quiet and thoughtful but have been such an example of loving respect of your family, friends, and peers. Two of the most respectable couples I know are gay. Through their example and partnership I have learned so much about my own marriage partnership.

Amendment One is a waste of time. North Carolina has a very serious budget issue. We have cut education to the bones. I want signs in yards that say no to more education cuts - or something else that MATTERS. I may move if Amendment One passes for utter shame for my state, fellow citizens, and for the future of my son. He will probably get a better education elsewhere anyway.