The right to a life without threat of violence, bigotry and hate.

If art grandpa was talking about anything else then he wouldn't be treated to this wall of hate. He would be respected as someone passionate about the things important in life. But because he's cares about the plight of gay people he has come in for abuse and hate. His peaceful enjoyment of life is constantly under attack by bigots and hate-mongers. If there were more people like Art Grandpa who were willing to stand up for themselves the world would be a better place.

Unfortunately, as this thread has proved as soon as he asks for equal treatment he's knocked down and told to hide away.

I agree but, It is up to parents to teach the values that we ourselves have learned. I have taught my children to accept people as they are but that does not mean they must become like them, just accept them. That includes Blacks and Gays. Myself being a religious man have also taught them that the teachings of the Bible comes first as their personal guide in life. Love thy neighbor and such. And the "and such" is what most people have a problem with. The Bible does say that homosexuality is a sin. And this is where the fight begins. I can accept you as you are but I can not accept your life style nor will I teach my children to do so. That might sound hypocrisy to you but that is me. Now, can you accept me as I am as I am willing to accept you as you are? I am not asking you to accept my life style but to accept me.

Gay Marriage:
1. Gays should have the same protections, advantages and disadvantages of marriage as straight couples.
2. I fail to see how any two people getting married can negatively affect the general course of life on this planet. Gays left alone do not breed but they can raise children in their care
and any child with two parents that care for them are better off than a child with only one or no parent.
3. Churches should not be forced to change their teachings or practices to conform to secular laws and mandates as it is contrary to the 1st amendment of the U.S. constitution regarding freedom of religion. Change must come from within the church not from forces outside the church.

Gun Control:
1. Fact:
Everywhere Gun Control has be tightened violent crime has gone up.
Everywhere Gun Controls have been repealed and concealed carry implemented all forms of crime have went down.
2. Any law that restricts law abiding citizens from obtaining arms equal to those arms used by common military and law enforcement personnel is an infringement and counter to the 2nd amendment.
3. The Supreme Court has ruled over and over again, that the type of weapons protected by the 2nd amendment are “ordinary military equipment” “in common use by the military” that “could contribute to the common defense”
4. Most gun control laws penalize law abiding citizens and do little to nothing to deter criminals from obtaining and using guns. Its like trying to stop drunk driving by outlawing cars.
5. Weapons, like “(bazookas, grenades, RPGs, etc…)”, are not “ordinary military equipment” “in common use by the military” that “could contribute to the common defense” they are special use weapons issued only to troops that are engaging an enemy in a combat zone and are under very strict control. Tanks and Jet Fighters, are equipment used by a very few specialized servicemen. Unlike the M16/A4, which are issued to all troops at one time or another.
6. Law abiding citizens do not buy guns to go out and shoot people. Guns are bought to put food on the table called Hunting, to protect their families and property called Security, and for enjoyment called Sport.

Lastly: If you don't like guns don't buy one and if you don't like gay marriage don't attend one. In the mean time, keep your nose out of other peoples business.