Why, California, must we be considered as second-class citizens?  I can't help but think if we were on the Titanic, we'd be the ones locked in the lower decks of the ship while the rest of the "upper class" get all the lifeboats.

Prop. 8 Upheld by California Supreme Court

It's amazing how much people are willing to hide behind the bible and religion for their own safety and piece of mind.  If the bible were to say blacks can't own land or women can't vote, I'm sure we'd be still fighting those issues as well.

It's a sad, sad day...

For those of you who have been waiting for this day, it's finally arrived (for a little while anyway...) Starting today, Californians, who also happen to be homosexuals, are legally allowed to marry within the state.

Officially starting at 5:01pm (PST), last month's ruling by the California Supreme Court allows same-sex couples the right to marry. That's just past closing time for county offices that issue marriage licenses, but some plan to stay open late to accommodate same-sex couples.

Of course, there's always the down side to every success story, and this one's no different. Starting today, Ann Barnett, a clerk in Kern County, is refusing to preside over any marriage ceremony, but many see it as her stance against same-sex marriage. She claimed she'll issue the new gender-neutral licenses, but refuses to preside over any of the ceremonies because "of space and staff constraints", she said in a statement. Along with the refusal, protests against same-sex marriages are expected throughout the state this week.

As if that weren't enough, opponents within the state have gathered enough signatures to put an amendment to the state consitution that would ban on same-sex marriage by adding it to the November ballot. What would happen to all the marriage licenses issued between now and November if the measure were to pass? Nobody's given a firm answer, but many believe they would revoke the licenses, mirroring the issue we faced in San Francisco back in 2004 (Thanks for trying, Mayor Newsom!!!).

For up-to-the-minute details on the issue, you can visit CNN.com. They seem to be covering the story with a balanced look at both sides of the fence, even if the other side is wrong.

The fights not over yet, but for a few months at least, gays can be recognized by the state of California as legally wed. I now pronounce you Husband and Husband (or Wife and Wife, if that's your preference.)

I know.  There are those of you who are asking, "What does this mean for you and Jarrod now that it's legal?"  There are a few things I need to take care of (both legally and personally), and we both would love to have a big ceremony in Hawaii, but perhaps we can get the legality taken care ASAP, so we can officially get the same benefits as any other married couple.

Don't worry.  If a ceremony does take place (big or small), you'll be invited!  Even if it has to be broadcast online for you East Coasters.  The Sherman/Lawrence wedding will be the affair of the year!!!