My friend Ginger is 72 years old. Ginger suffered from back pain for quite some time and doctors recently found tumors in her spine. We all were concerned it was a recurrence of her previous cancer. While undergoing tests, Ginger reflected on her life. She shared that the one thing she always wanted but never was able to experience was her wedding day. Edna, her partner of 43 years, quickly overcame her own fears and proposed. Soon, we were happily pulling together an August wedding and reception for two very special brides.
It was a lovely ceremony. A minister presided. We prayed with the couple as they recited their vows. We all applauded the signing of the official marriage certificate. Ginger smiled from ear to ear in spite of her pain. She finally felt whole and validated.
Now, Ginger shall return to Stanford for more tests and the California Supreme Court will decide if her marriage is valid. For some sad, mainly religious reason, 52 percent of the voters may soon invalidate her equality.
Ginger and Edna are exceptional citizens. For decades, they worked hard, served humanity, and paid taxes. If this union of 43 years is not a valid marriage, I suggest the California Supreme Court immediately invalidate all civil marriages, hence creating equality for all adult citizens. In this manner, religious organizations can still perform religious ceremonies for whomever they choose, and gays and lesbians shall finally receive equality under the law.
Ethel Landers
Nipomo
This article appears in Dec 18-25, 2008.
