Talking Some More
Remaining on topic with the previous entry, I must say that I read with disgust what the President said today. 
He is …. a dangerous man. Sometimes he’s simply ridiculous and laughable; other times he’s just plain sickening. Today he is the latter.
In the above-linked article, Democrats are quoted as saying,
I couldn’t agree more!!
If you have not read the comments to the previous entry, I suggest you do so. My friend Patrick has a vested interest in the outcome of what has become a highly controversial subject, and makes some very valid and important points in its regard. Thank you, Patrick. 
Now, I need someone to explain to me what the difference is between marriage and a civil union. Is it simply the religious aspect?? If so, then does that mean all those who were married by a Judge or Justice of the Peace are not really “married”, but only “civilly joined”?? Sounds like symantecs to me. It also sounds like the Government trying to dictate to Churches. Shouldn’t a Church be left alone to decide if they want to marry a gay couple or not?? Doesn’t sound much like division of Church and State, does it. Or maybe I’m just not seeing things clearly. But I doubt it.
February 24th, 2004 at 1:04 pm
Patrick
SoapboxCivil Unions are a quasi type of marriage, but can be rejected by the states or institutions, offer no protections in court, and have no federal definitions. It can come into play if the company you are working for offers domestic partner benefits. Those companies can require that you are registered in a civil union in order to get your benefits for your partner. However, if I put my domestic partner on my insurance (provided I ever get a second date…and a job with benefits), I will be taxed for the benefits. A married couple is not taxed for providing their spouse with health insurance.
The federal goverment does not recognize civil unions, so when filling out taxes, I would (and always will) need to fill out as if I was single. This also comes into play depending on where I live. Ohio tax law says when you change the ownership of a car into someone else’s name, they must pay taxes on it…unless the person is a spouse. When my ex and I ended our 6 year relationship, he had my car in his name as he had a better interest rate. We won’t change it over, because I would have to pay several hundred in taxes.
Insurance companies give discounts to those who are married, but will not recognize a long term gay relationship.
So really the difference between a civil union and a marriage is that civil unions have no legal ground. States do not have to honor civil unions performed in other states if they have no unions themselves. The whole situation resounds of “separate but equal” which really isn’t the case at all.
Questions?? :-)
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February 24th, 2004 at 1:57 pm
So basically, Patrick, what you’re saying is that a civil union is pretty much meaningless. That figures. Well, it totally sucks! I read today that even John Kerry is against same-sex marriage, but supports civil unions. Bah! Where do we find someone with a brain???
I have no questions for you right now; you explained everything very well, for which I am very appreciative. Thank you.
I reserve the right, however, to ask more questions when and if they pop into this head of mine. ;)
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February 25th, 2004 at 12:13 am
Wow you made an excellent post. and thanks Patrick for that info.
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February 25th, 2004 at 6:20 pm
I agree with you, Leigh & Patrick! & Martie too! ^_^ Love you all!
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February 25th, 2004 at 9:12 pm
My friend, Kaetlan, wrote a very interesting post today, Leigh. I think you’d enjoy her take on it.
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February 26th, 2004 at 3:57 pm
Oh. My. Goodness.
I particularly like this gem: “Marriage cannot be severed from its cultural, religious and natural roots without weakening the good influence of society.”
Hm, on that note…Leigh, don’t you have an 11-year-old daughter? By former cultural standards, some 30-year-old man should be able to come along say, “Here’s some money. When she’s fourteen, I’ll come and collect her for marriage. Hooray!” Hooray for cultural and “natural” roots!
Bah. This whole topic makes me angry - not the least of which is because our president can’t see he’s not in charge of our spiritual well-being! Dolt.
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February 26th, 2004 at 6:52 pm
I am sooo glad most people I know online think along the same lines I do… and not as Bush does.
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February 28th, 2004 at 6:47 pm
I’m so with you on this. That man is insane and an embarrassment to this nation. (And to alcoholics everywhere.)
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February 28th, 2004 at 9:08 pm
Yeah LEIGH!!! 15 WEEKS NOW!! you rock girl!!! I am so proud of you!!! It will really get easier from here on out!!! Trust me!!!
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March 1st, 2004 at 4:04 am
morning has broken
and, i DIDN’T DO IT!
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March 2nd, 2004 at 4:19 am
You have not been around for a while so I am dropping by to send you a cheery greeting and a hug. Am thinking of you and the family. Say hi to your mum. (((hugs)))
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March 2nd, 2004 at 10:10 am
Yes indeed, you’ve done a wonderful job.
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March 3rd, 2004 at 10:10 am
Are you in there? Are you OK?
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