POST: Listen to Pastor Chuck

I am concerned how people in or out of our city are being so vocal about what we all believe in: Equal rights for all citizens of these United States.

If we believe that there really are no legitimate reasons to prevent someone who’s different from us in our beliefs and birth, to access services we are ALL entitled to, then acceptance is something to learn more about the mystery of the “why” of birth.

Pastor Chuck explained the difference in civil and Christian marriage ceremonies; it is the choice of every church to determine that, and they have. Some ministers will perform same-sex ceremonies, and some choose not to. Let that be, and be married peacefully where you choose and the church chooses. All can also choose, if they wish, to be married with a civil ceremony. Acceptance of the laws of the land will take time.

I believe people are born the way they are — more male or female. They are what they are born to be. They, too, are God’s children. They struggle greatly in life for acceptance and they are some of the finest citizens I know. Those of us who are not gay need to recognize those born that way struggle through all processes of learning to live as they are destined to do and, just as you and I, they succeed or not but they have many more hurdles to cross than you or I.

Let’s not stand in their way of being equal to and deserving the rights of all citizens of these great United States. I too am a Christian and I read the Bible. My reading of the passages so profusely set forth are apparently in the eyes of the beholder.

Let us truly be the kinder and gentler citizen of this truly great city and all it offers us. Let us smile and welcome one and all. Life is a short time here on Earth — let’s welcome one and all with a smile.

Let peace descend upon our city.

COLLEEN ALLISON

Coeur d’Alene