BBVD, If practical matters were the only things that drove people to get married, married people would comprise even less a percentage of the population than they do now. Some folks really do want to proclaim their love and undying devotion - in our society we call that marriage.

Times change and morals change. Remember that 150 years ago, freedom had a totally different meaning for a black man as opposed to a white man.

I'm not certain where I stand on the issue of gay marriage. I know that I react badly when I perceive discrimination and I do see discrimination against homosexuals. I do not see how gay marriage is a slap in the face to any religion nor do I see it doing irrepairable harm to the institution. At the same time, I am concerned that a large number of gay activists seem to be in this fight based on ideology only. Tough choices.