Quote:
Originally posted by Cerek the Barbaric:
quote:
Originally posted by Yorick:
Let me ask this also -
If you have no belief in God, and no desire to raise children, what are the reasons for lifelong monogamy?
I believe in God and desire children, and these are the only two reasons I would invest such commitment in a lifelong relationship again (speaking as a divorced man).
I cannot "get out of my head" so I'd love to know why you'd supress all those "natural desires" to be exclusively with one person as per the marriage vow.
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Because many of them believe in honoring thier chosen partner with a lifelong commitment (or at least an exclusive commitment for the length of the relationship) just like those of us with a religious belief.
The only difference is they see no reason to go through the religious ceremony of marriage, but some of them may choose to become legally married.
I know an example of each. My r/l atheist friend has been with his current g/f for about 8 yrs (as well as I can remember). I see no signs of either of them leaving the relationship, but neither of them see any reason to be married in the eyes of God or the state.
On the other hand, I know an atheist member on a forum I visit that DID decide to get married despite his lack of belief in God. Whether his wife had any influence on the decision or not, I don't know. Just providing an illustrative example for each scenario. [/QUOTE]Cerek, thanks for replying. However, you're speculating outside your experience, as you have kids and are Christian.
Also, I may be mistaken, but I'm yet to read a definitive description of what you hold marriage to be. I'll have a look at the other thread.
As to that, why did so few post what they believe marriage to be? So many use such a loose term without clarifying what it is.
Surely, if people are going to champion something (gay marriage) they should dissect the very thing they are seeking to gain or allow.
What is marriage?
What benefit does it bring?
Can you have all these benefits without a society elevating your union?
It's frustrating to say the least. I have very clear ideas of what my marriage was, and what it would be in the future. What it is. These are person ideas however, and very much dependent on my view of God, his intention for my life, my reason for existence, and procreation.
I simply wish people would be less defensive and more willing to break down what a word actually means and examine what they are really discussing.