As the election results are finalized and reflected upon, I find myself dwelling on the injustice that was dealt to the people of California.
It seems that everywhere I turn, people cited "change" as their inspiration for selecting Obama as president. Yet here in California, it seems some of the same people who voted for Obama also decided that the fundamental right to secure a relationship in the eye of the State was not to be a valid choice for all citizens.
What!? How could a person make their mark on a ballot knowing that their vote will tell another person he/she is not equal or worthy of respect? That their vote tells another couple "sorry, you won't be able to make medical decisions, transfer property, KEEP YOUR OWN CHILDREN " because I feel my right to BELIEVE is stronger then your right to BE.
This morning I heard a caller on the radio explain to the interviewer that all relationship laws had been written out in one book; he strongly believed our country should follow those clearly stated sentences. As I was listening to him, I supported his right to his beliefs. But when his ideas block the fundamental rights of other people, our agreement ends. How dare he tell other people who and how they can love? How dare he be so prudish and narrow minded that he goes out of his way to avoid empathizing with another couple and their family? How dare he let one religion get in the way of our country growing into a more perfect union? How can we teach our children respect and fairness towards others if we continue to allow slurs and bullying in our schools? And are we much better as adults?
We as citizens should protect anyone who is being treated unfairly or unjustly and not take away their basic rights. Let us hope Californians will see "change" as an opportunity to come together and work harder for a better future for all. That is how we become better Americans.