Love Absolutely Wins by Loving Thy Neighbor
The most historic triumph of the American gay rights community to date has finally happened last Friday, June 26. As the Supreme Court legalizes same-sex marriage in all 50 states of America, members of the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) community rejoice. To mark the highest court’s decision and symbolize gay pride, the White House was lit in rainbow colors that night.
All of the same-sex activists and supporters, especially the gay couples, were delighted by this milestone. They are now given the legal right to get married. The U.S. constitution guarantees due process and equal protection for same-sex marriage. This is, by far, the gay rights movement’s biggest victory.
Gay Pride
While there are people celebrating the Supreme Court’s ruling on same-sex marriage, there are also who disagree with it. Same-sex marriage is a sensitive issue that’s been touched on ever since. Not all people are happy with the court’s decision, however, the issue has already been ruled.
We have seen a large number of same-sex marriage supporters through different social media platforms after the court’s decision has been announced. The #LoveWins and #HappyPride were trending worldwide to show support for the ruling on this legal right. Some even changed their Facebook profile pictures with a rainbow filter to celebrate gay pride.
The Counter Belief
This has been a victorious moment for the LGBT community, but getting rid of the unwanted and unnecessary comments or opinions regarding this matter is impossible. All the disapproval and criticism are part of this “success”.
Our conservative brothers and sisters from various religious sectors may oppose same-sex marriage, because of their beliefs and traditions. It is hard for them to recognize the ruling, for the Bible states that marriage is a sacred covenant meant only for a man and a woman. They also believe homosexuality is a result of denying and disobeying God.
The Power of Social Media
Sure, we all have our own opinions about the ruling on same-sex marriage. We have the right and freedom to express anything, in whatever form we want. It is also true that homosexual activity is a sin. Thus, it is also a sin to disrespect or humiliate others in any form, like saying vulgar or hurtful words toward people whom we don’t know personally or deeply.
Social media is a powerful tool to express one’s self. This has been one of the most influential forms to show support or disapproval on same-sex marriage. Hence, this causes a lot of misunderstandings and dispute between those who oppose and support.
Love Thy Neighbor
The Bible also teaches us to love thy neighbor. It is our obligation as children of God to love and respect one another, despite our differences and beliefs. No one ever told us it is right to condemn or judge other people. There are never-ending arguments raised every day regarding same-sex marriage. Each makes a stand and expects to be heard or approved, but this could be almost impossible.
The most important thing is to learn to respect other’s beliefs. You may disapprove with same-sex marriage or other issues, but you have to be responsible of the things you are to say or do to express your opinion. Let us just all be happy for one another without giving any rude or foul judgments. Yes, this is not as simple as it seems. But if we are to trust and love one another, we can absolutely make this world a better place to live in for the next generations to come.
(Photo Credit: K.Alexanderson)
What are your thoughts regarding the legalization of same-sex marriage in the United States? Share them below!
