Marriage and contracts aren't alike

To the editor:

How arrogant we are declaring there should or should not be marriage between people of the same sex. Marriage is something that happens between a man and a woman. We may end up changing the word we use for it before this is all over, but it will not change the fact. Neither religion nor government can change it.

Government makes contracts about marriage, but it cannot create marriages. Government can give tax breaks for married couples and set up rules to provide a degree of fairness if a marriage fails.

So let's talk about contracts, not marriage. If people choose to enter into relationships with the same sex, perhaps there is a role for government in creating a contract that will help them. Perhaps not. But don't call it marriage.

Religions vary in their opinions about homosexuality. It is the role of religion to have such opinions. It is not the role of government.

The first and best step that can be taken to have a rational discussion about what kinds of contracts may or may not be appropriate for government to provide with respect to same-sex unions would be to clear up what we are talking about.

Words are important. Neither politicians nor clergy should create murky water by misusing them.

BOB TODD

Piedmont, Mo.