I’ve been following Prop 8 and the deep chasm it’s caused in society. It’s pitting people against each other and makes me glad I don’t live in California (where I was born). What is totally alarming to me is the hatred and backlash there is against the church. It stings to see a picture of our prophet with the word “bigot” underneath it.

People are protesting at our temples and spray painting our churches with graffiti. I’ve heard of nothing against other Christians who sided with us on the definition of marriage.

Today’s lesson was about Joseph Smith and I’m reminded of how his life was one of continual trial (not to mention Emma Smith!). We’re not used to being persecuted and hated openly, and it’s not to that level, but it troubles me to see what is happening.

We disagree, we do not hate. It’s not a question of having rights as a couple - relationships of family and love are and should be recognized in society (as the church says in employment, death, medical rights/issues). It’s a moral issue and we take a firm stand on that aspect.

I wanted to be at the Salt Lake temple this weekend in some ways. In others I want to avoid the clashes! In other ways I wanted to support our church.

When gay and lesbian couples legally married we did not stand in the way.  We didn’t harass those getting married or try to ruin their happiness at the occasion. This is being threatened right now to heterosexual (and I believe only LDS) marriages. There are open threats and there is open hatred (see this article for a first-hand account).

What has been your experience with this issue?