GAY: Religion isn't the answer

I am writing in response to Mr. Hollingsworth’s letter “Gay: Religion can help you.” I am disappointed to read such an ignorant letter. I am hurt that there are still people in our community who cannot accept everyone for who they are regardless of the sexual orientation.

Many years ago, I believed as Mr. Hollingsworth but then I was introduced to several people who were gay and I started to see the only difference between us was their sexual orientation. Still to this day, I value some of the things taught to me by gay friends, like accepting someone for their intellect or hard work.

Mr. Hollingsworth stated scientists have not found the gay gene. Well, where is the religion gene? If scientists found a gay gene, then wouldn’t the religious people say it was the work of the devil? The religious and overly righteous are quick to require proof until it comes to the proof of GOD. Science has proven many things about our world and our history but it is not acceptable to the religious world because it does not conform to GOD’s law. I DO NOT AND WILL NOT doubt anyone’s faith but I will challenge the doctrine to which they judge me or anyone else.

In our country, Justice is represented as blind and balanced. What someone chooses to do with their life is their decision, as long as they do not infringe upon my life. Tell me Mr. Hollingsworth, how is someone being gay infringing upon your right, except to discriminate? Your example of looking at someone and determining whether they should be protected from discrimination is very close-minded and wrong. The value of any person is not visible but internal and to classify people based upon looking at them is DISCRIMINATION!

Mr. Hollingsworth stated, “Why should we allow 2 percent tell the rest of us how to live (paraphrased).” WHY NOT! Don’t these people deserve the right to pursue what makes them happy and productive? By offering protection under the law to all people makes sure everyone has equal rights through the law. Just like your right to speak about your religion anywhere and at any time.

Mr. Hollingsworth stated, “…there is nothing so rewarding as raising a family, and seeing your very own grandchildren.” If these gay couple wish to have families and raise them, more power to them and eventually they will see their grandchildren grow up to be better people than you or I because those grandchildren will be less likely to discriminate.

I was an ordained Reverend in a Christian religion but now I am happily married (to a woman) who was raised in a very religious home. I have given up the robes to embrace the value of people based upon their heart and their desire to be treated as equal.

MATTHEW T. GAIER

Athol