A few days ago, the United States Supreme Court ruled on redefining what marriage is in this country. My first response was one of anger and I lashed out by posting these words on social media:
“Hatred of God (who is Love) is being veiled as love. Fascinating. Congratulations Generation Kardashian, but Love, real love, will conquer all. Maybe not in this life but definitely in the next.”
The reason I am apologizing and asking for forgiveness is, the first and last sentences. These bookend comments were, and are, wrong. Let’s look at the first sentence.
While sin is a hateful act against God, who am I to judge? I am an unmarried man who has sexual relations with different women. That is an equal sin, if not more so, than homosexuality. They call it “living in sin” for a reason.
The last sentence is true, love will conquer all eventually, but it was a passive aggressive way of me judging and condemning others.
Now, let me just say, for the sake of history, I still do not agree with the Court’s decision. I think government should have no role in religion and religion in government. I am for separation of church and state, and that goes both ways.
Religions may have been wrong and persecuted others, but creating a world and environment that may allow those tables to be turned is just as wrong.
And to be clear, I’ve always been fine with the little m of marriage, the legal side of things. It’s the big M, the religious part, that I do not want to see affected.
So, again, if I hurt anyone with my judgmental statement, I am sorry. Truly, truly, sorry. I have no right to judge others, and, if I look at my own deeds, I’m the last one to judge others on morality on this earth. I was angry that religious freedoms are now under attack and that is not the right response.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church clearly addresses how homosexuals should be treated. In part, 2358 states:
“They must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided.”
I still don’t feel that I discriminated but, I was, lacking the respect, compassion, and sensitivity that we all need.
And for that I am sorry. I hope to have your mercy that I so desperately lack.
Tony Hernandez 