The notion of same sex marriage is not something to which I have ever given much thought previous to this assignment. Mostly because it doesn't affect me, nor do I see how allowing it could have an adverse affect on society. I believe that same sex marriage is a natural evolution of our society. Religious views aside, there is no reason why two individuals that are in a loving, committed relationship should not be able to enter into an official union that affords them the benefits of marriage simply because they are of the same gender. In choosing a side on this matter, one has to face his own homophobia and prejudicial beliefs, and challenge the longstanding historical view that marriage should be between one man and one woman.
             "Each individual's journey through life is unique. Some will make this journey alone, others in loving relationships – maybe in marriage or other forms of commitment. We need to ponder our own choices and try to understand the choices of others. Love has many shapes and colors and is not finite. It cannot be measured or defined in terms of sexual orientation."
             Married couples in this nation are afforded several social and economic benefits. Most states typically grant 400 rights and privileges to each married couple, and the federal government separately contributes an additional 1,000 benefits to them. Same sex couples that are in long-term, loving, committed relationships that decide to pursue a permanent legal bond such as marriage should be given these same benefits.
             Many politicians have come forward to say that they do not support same sex marriage, but do support states' rights to create a new set of laws and regulations to cover a civil union or domestic partnership, similar to what Vermont has done. For example, Senator John Kerry "...does not support gay marriage but does support civil unions." By allowing civil unions but not sam...