Abolish Intolerance One Mind at a Time

The way of life has definitely changed in the last 30 years. We have new technology making life easier, medical advancements saving lives, and a more enlightened society. But unfortunately this is not enough. We still have an unthinkable amount of discrimination, intolerance, hatred, and racism. Please keep in mind this is an opinion piece and my opinion may be different so all I ask is that if you choose to read this do so with the intention of hearing and considering what I have to say.

Currently in California Prop 8 is set for the November ballot. If approved this would block gay marriage, a major set back since this ban was lifted in June. My opinion on this: WHO CARE'S! Too many people are concerned about what others, down the street or next town over are doing instead of focusing on themselves and what is happening in their own home. The decision for Bob and Billy to get married vs. Bob and Betty has no affect on my life personally. I'm still going to have the same job, the same car, the same taxes, the same bills to pay, the same health issues, and the same family decisions to make. Since June, I have seen no affect or impact on my life thus far. The argument is that gay marriage violates the sanctity of marriage or the decline of morals and values as a whole. I don't see how the current divorce rate for heterosexuals which is over fifty percent will be affected. Is it possible that homosexuals, who tend to be incredibly loyal people, will have a lower divorce rate? If so would this cause shame in the heterosexual community? I also don't think gay marriage will affect the steady increase of teenage pregnancy. Only parent and community involvement educating students, who are obviously already having sex, teaching safe sex on a consistent basis and providing opportunities or access to contraception/protection could possible change this epidemic.

It is unfortunate that many people disagree with homosexuality for the simple fact that they don't understand it. Now if you are solely attracted to the opposite sex and cannot view yourself ever being with someone of the same sex then it may be difficult to comprehend. However, you don't need to understand homosexuality but instead you should be sympathetic of how you want to live your life. The fact is that you wouldn't want someone to pry into your personal life, dictate your every move and tell you how to live your life, who to love, what religion to believe in, what jobs are appropriate for you to pursue, what bars or clubs to go to, how to behave, or even what clothes to wear, in the event they may go against the grain or be too feminine/masculine. So if you don't want to live this way don't force someone else to either.

Our society needs to change their mindset and teach their children that being a diverse community is ok. Your thoughts or opinions may be different from others but that's fine. We should be able to have discussions with others, hear their point of view and say 'that's interesting but this is how I see it'. Tolerating other opinions doesn't mean you need to change your point of view or opinion. People have different interests and upbringings which mold and shape their opinions. We should be able to tell our children 'here's what I think but I know your father/mother feels differently, why don't you talk to them as well or even grandma/grandpa see what they think. Take in all the information you can and form your own thoughts on what you feel is right. When you come across new information and you might change your mind, just remember everyone feels differently, you choose for you. Live and let live'.

It's the same for religion and racism; too many of us want others to fall in line with what we are doing. If we disagree we are labeled corrupt, heathens, or morally wrong. Separation in communities due to religious/racial differences is the easiest way to create divisions. These divisions in the community lead to increased crimes, poverty, and overall disillusionment. People seemed to either have tunnel vision or be driven by anger, bitterness, and betrayal. Their opinion is the only one that counts and it drives their life and decisions they make. At times this can happen to the best of us, but we all must learn to take a step back and look and the bigger picture.

Imagination and creativity are just as important as acceptance and perseverance. I can only hope to be a loving and embracing example. To encourage a different point of view for my child, who will be a leader for the future.