Not all men are created equal. No matter what your beliefs are, this premise is uncontestable if you live in a society such as ours. You may call yourself a good person, a Christian, one that wouldn’t hesitate to lend a hand to a friend, or to a stranger in need. But, are you really?

Though you may believe in the rights of gay people to live openly as such, many of you are still reluctant to extend equal consideration to all. While it may be that you understand and recognize the discriminatory policies affecting gay families, in the end you remain indifferent. Others say, “I have gay friends, but marriage is between a man and a woman.” If this is you, you probably base this opinion on moral values that, without judging the validity of their foundation, you consider unchangeable. This rationale makes you an extremist.

Although this country was founded under the promise of secularism, we have betrayed our Founding Fathers by not exercising a true separation of church and state. The Mormons, for example, have injected themselves into the political arena soldiering the fight against equality and fairness. This church and its members have financed hate campaigns to actually take away rights that had been granted to the gay citizens of this country. You may not be as radical as the Mormons, yet you do nothing.

The Golden Rule advises us to treat other people as we would like to be treated. How would you feel if you were denied privileges others in your community take for granted? Before interjecting an opinion, stop and really think about it for a minute. Think about the gay person you know. Think about their life, their love, their hopes and their dreams. If you were in their place, would your actions (or inactions) be the same? It is hard to imagine how any one can claim to be pro gay rights if their actions contradict the most basic principles of equal protection under the law.

So, after a long process of critical thinking and after the recent lost battle in New York, I have decided to initiate my blog discussing tolerance and inviting others to join in. Of course, this is not for the extremist, radical, or close-minded I mention above, this invitation goes to all of you who are able to distinguish between your religious beliefs and lawful equality. Remaining indifferent is no longer an option. We need you and there are various ways in which you can lend a hand. I certainly can think of a few. Can you think of at least one? If so, do you mind sharing it?

Thank you and a very joyful Holiday season to you!