Objections to the possibility of gay marriages

THE EDITOR, Sir:

Homosexuals have come under increased public fire lately, mostly so in the aftermath of United States President Barack Obama's personal statement on their right to marriage. The local upsurge in public indignation caused me to think seriously about my own objections to the possibility of gay marriages. It's a matter of heart versus head.

A democratic society is based on the principle of majority rule. Many constitutions speak of citizens' rights to the pursuit of happiness. These hallowed documents also speak to freedom from religious or other forms of persecution. Finally, the matter of equal protection under the law is a predominant principle.

On the other hand, most (if not all) organised religions on earth have serious sanctions against homosexual practice. It's just wrong. No more arguments are needed.

So, in a world such as ours, how are we to stay true to the principle of a free society of individuals pursuing self-actualisation, while holding fast to deeply held personal philosophies of wrong and right?

MARLON JOHNSON

mhj_007@hotmail.com

Runaway Bay, St Ann