Dangerkitty:
Proclamation, not "Proclimation". Sorry. Couldn't resist.
You describe yourself as a "Scholar" (with capital "S" and everything!). Based on what? Just reading about something from age 12 does not make you a scholar (caps or no caps). Makes you a hobbyist (sp?), perhaps.
I agree with your right to have and express an opinion, and will take up arms to defend our (yours and mine) right to do so. What bothers me is how people feel so entitled to judge and condemn others simply based on religious beliefs or opinions. You mentioned something about "I know this (homosexuality) is wrong". How do you know that? Live your life, educate your children, follow your values, but don't tell others what to believe. Again, use reason (i.e., science) to guide you.
People like me fight for your right (and mine) to live your life as you wish. Don't tell me how to live mine. Live your life. Back off about other people's lives. Really. Why do you care that someone has a gay pride parade? Why does it get you so riled up? Don't go. I don't. Simple. The only explanation I can think of is that you think you know a truth others don't (back to the "I know this is wrong" comment). It reminds me of Pentecostal Christians obsessed with saving "little brown people in 3rd world countries who don't accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior" (read that in your best Southern used car salesman voice) or they will go to hell--and thus go and try coerce them...they actually think they are doing them a favor!
I'd like to raise my children to respect others, and to understand that the world is not black and white, right and wrong, liberal or conservative. There are hues to everything, and if you appreciate that the world is a much more interesting place. I have met very nice gay people, with a strong sense of decency and family values. I have also met loud, self-professed conservative Christians who claim morality and then excitedly suggest we go to the tittie bars as soon as we land at our overnight (but not before cooing "I wuv you" to wifey-poo on the cell phone and praying with the kids).
Whew! Sorry. I am enjoying the exchange , though. Have a nice day.
Cardenal