It’s really very interesting that you assume same-sex marriage is my “lifestyle.” I’m actually straight and in an opposite-sex marriage with kids. One doesn’t have to belong to a group of people to believe that it is just as deserving of equal rights under law.

Besides, Rick Warren is what this article is about. It’s what you’re trying to distract people from – remember?

I see no evidence that Rick Warren will have to stand before anyone to give an account of himself, but he is contributing to suffering in the here and now.

Separation from God is in my left shoulder? No, I don’t think so.

Dave, I know it shocks you that anyone can be happy without sharing your particular religious beliefs, but I am indeed a happy person. My happiness comes from those closest with me – my family, not from the belief that the thousands of years dead son of a fictional creator of the universe loves me. It’s a lot easier that way, at least for me, and your God-talk doesn’t measure up to it.

J.Clifford, I’m sorry to say I’ve grown tired of our little chats. Please take no offense, but constant insults do not make for invigorating debate.

I’ll leave you with one thought. When you’re alone with just your thoughts, you know, the whole comtemplating life thing. You ever notice that little ache. It’s called seperation from God, and it never goes away. Well, not for a lot of people anyway.

I’ll place my pre-emtive reply now….Right…sure you’re happy.

And Jim, I just can’t believe Christians aren’t embracing your lifestyle. Your comment about servicing the one thing they hold dearest. Oh well, what do your expect from a bunch of intolerant bigots. It’s too bad they don’t see how considerate you really are.

Good luck boys.

P.S. – has anyone found those living plesiosaurs Rick Warren keeps hinting at?

The concept of Hell was introduced into Christianity by the Greeks. The Bible does speak of an eternal pit of fire, but only a place where people who have been judged for being bad little boys will go to perish. A loving God would not forever torment someone who doesn’t believe. Although J. Clifford, I’d say you are pushing the envelope with your comments.

I disagree with Paliban Mom about God weeping at your column. You aren’t the first to mock God, and certainly won’t be the last. He’s probaly just taking notes. Some day he’ll open up that Big O Book of Life and remind you. Just you and Him. No Jims, no Astonished, no Ralphs. Just el mano y el spirito. But don’t worry, there’s always time to unthaw that cold cold heart. (My apologies to Hank Williams). Well……until the big day of course! Then it’s just desserts time.

You think I don’t know He weeps when He reads my columns? It’s just with that in mind that I write, you know. I consider that I’m doing a service to the farmers here in the fine state of Ohio; all those tears help the corn grow that much taller.