In many ways I think the legalities are the more superficial side of the issue (although I know the rights and privileges they represent are core level ones). But, as you alluded, it’s where faith and friendship intersect that the true wrestling (and possibility of change) occurs. For MOST of the “conservative” movement I see, the breakdown occurs with the friendship step. So often, they can’t get past the LGBT label to see or know a person and their situation. Once the friendship hurdle is crossed, it’s a whole new ballgame. When your beliefs have to play out in the lives of people you like and care about, you take more care in getting it right.

My whole thought process on the issue started because I saw a glimpse of Polly and her family. It touched me in the common areas of mothers (and Babas) beyond lesbian or straight. I found myself wanting her to be able to be legally married. I want her to have what she wants, to be able to make that choice. So, I started examining my beliefs more carefully on the issue to see how they really matched up with that.

I’m rambling, as I’m prone. Thank you for continuing the discussion. It is a delight and important.

I wanted to make sure you saw this post from Blogging for LGBT Families Day. (I’ve written my own post about it here.) The author is a lesbian and a Christian, and talks about a friend of hers who nevertheless voted Yes on Prop 8. It reminds me a lot of your post and how these matters of politics, belief, and friendship are very often more gray than black and white.