Gay marriage is now the law of the land. As expected there were those on the right who reacted with extreme negativity. Hopefully their bombastic statements will fade with time as the reality of what has occurred sets in.

I say this with a word of caution as I realize a change in statutes does not necessarily equate to changes in hearts and minds. I doubt those in our community who referred to gays as an “abomination” will be convinced to mend their ways (having grown up in Wisconsin and being a long-time Packer supporter, a rabid Chicago Bears fan living in Green Bay is what I call an abomination!).

As for the idea the institution of marriage is under attack, I find this to be a very flawed argument. Heterosexuals take a vow -- make a promise to love one another forever, yet the divorce rate in this country is approaching 50 percent!

While statistics are not available I would imagine adultery is the cause of many breakups, yet such cheating is not referred to as an abomination. Why is that? Perhaps it is because railing against this “sinful” practice would cause too many churchgoers to sheepishly look around then quietly get up and leave through the side door.

“Okay, so the world isn’t perfect. What’s next?”

Ann and I will celebrate with our gay friends and all the others who have waited and waited to see if there was real meaning in the words: “Justice and Equality for All.”

And, though this hurdle has been overcome, I’m not smart enough to see what tomorrow will bring. I can only hope another set of words will eventually carry the day:

Webster’s: “Tolerance: a.) Esp. of views, beliefs and practices, etc. of others that differ from one’s own b.) Freedom from bigotry or prejudice.”