For those of you who don't have family or friends in California or haven't heard about the aftermath after Prop. 8 passed; here is a summary of what has happened. Yes, we feel extremely victorious and joyful but the battle still rages on...
Three lawsuits have already been filed on the grounds that Prop 8 is unconstitutional and violates the state's equal protection act in the state's Constitution. Although, we are hopeful that the court will find that there are no merits to any of these lawsuits. However, it is the same court that reversed the first Proposition so who knows; anything goes apparently with them. The dissenting judges in that case said in their opinion that is wasn't up to the legislation nor the courts to decide this issue but rather the people. The people have spoken twice already and I hope we will be heard this time.
This afternoon I am watching on TV gay rights activists protest in front of the Los Angeles Temple. The temple ended all sessions and closed for the safety and protection of everyone. I see unkind signs and pictures towards the church, our temples, and our prophet. I heard a soundbite of a press conference in front of the temple talking badly about the prophet and us, as members. The protesters say they will be there all night. All these events make me wonder, where are the protests for the Catholic, Lutheran, and other churches that joined hand in hand with us in this battle? Are our California temples in jeopardy of being harmed, defaced, or destroyed out of anger? Will our priesthood leaders have to stand guard like those did in pioneer days (even though there are tons of police)? How far will Satan go?
We, as a church, were not the only ones to vote yes. I saw the map of the state broken into counties provided on the secretary of state website it was a sea of green (green= yes on 8 majority) even LA county was green! Speculation is that people were afraid to voice their true feelings when polled or surveyed.
I am proud to have participated in the fight to defend the divine institution of marriage. I am proud that our church led the fight. We are not afraid to defend and honor God, Jesus Christ, and their teachings/principles. One Lutheran lady called our church building and spoke to our Bishop. She could not get off the phone because she wanted to express so much gratitude to our church for leading the fight.
On this day, I am overcomed with joy for the blessing which is mine to know the true gospel and to belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I am proud and honored to be a member. I will forever stand, defend, and fight. May the Lord protect us, our church buildings, and temples under this persecution.
On a happier note, check out these pictures:
November 2008 -- Anna 4 months. 
November 2004 -- Ashley 3 months.
Both girls will always know the importance of voting.
6 comments:
Wow! I didn't know all that was happening out there. I hope and pray that things don't escalate out of control. Your little girls look cute with their stickers!
I have been nervously watching the polls this week and was thrilled it passed. I am proud of all those who made their voices heard to protect marrage. You have fought a good fight but we all know it's just the beginning of the battle. You are on the right side my friend. Your family will be blessed for standing up for what is right.
Cute pictures of the girlies.
Luv Becky
Thank goodness! What a battle. Good job and thank you for your part in standing up for the rest of us that couldn't be as involved!
Wow! you have a lot of post's, that is great! Your girls are so cute. Is Ashley loving school? How is Michael liking his job? And most of all how are you?- Send me an email some time:)
I'm relieved that once again you guys protected marriage. We were surprised when Oregon did a few years back. But I fear as you do that the battle is far from over and it worries me how bad it might get in the future. But that just means we have to keep standing firm. Your girls are adorable! You will be in our prayers!
So much protesting going on... We were going to go take our family pics at City Creek Park on Saturday (it is next to the Capitol) but we had to change plans as there was a gay rights rally planned for that day. Wouldn't that make a memorable Christmas card picture? haha... It is interesting how people view the idea of marriage. Some of those protesting Prop 8 say it has nothing to do with kids/families. I think they have forgotten the lesson they were once taught on the birds and the bees...what do you think?
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