Aunty - I think you have very valid points, and I agree there is a lot of common sense in your examples.

But leave marriage alone. It is a unique relationship with some boundries that most americans appreciate.

Head of household, civil unions, life partners, etc - fine, just don't keep diluting and minimizing the importants of marriage in our society.

I'd like to see some of those special interest tax dollars going to programs in schools that teach kids (and adults) the value of the skills to have lasting relationships. People seem to think it is common sense and doesn't need to be taught, but if all our kids have to teach them about relationships is MTV, movies, TV shows - then it's no wonder marriage is on a downward spiral. Thankfully there are still lots of strong families out there providing good examples and know how to raise there kids and how to maintain strong and lasting relationships built on commitments and not just feelings.