Same Gender Attraction

I recently read the transcript to an interview Elder Dallin H. Oaks and Elder Lance B. Wickman gave in December 2012, regarding Same Gender Attraction. It can be found here.

This past week a lot has been said in regards to gay marriage. As I've read comment boards, I have seen hatred expressed (both ways), against others with opposing views. As Elder Oaks mentioned, those who disagree with the gay lifestyle are characterized as "narrow-minded, bigoted, and unreasonable." For years, the LGBT has asked for equal marriage rights, and the courts are now going against the voice of the people of many states, and allowing this to happen.

I've seen Facebook posts of friends that are celebrating the news that now the LGBT can finally have what they want and deserve, that there is equality for all! To be honest, I've never had a problem with the LGBT community having the benefits that come along with marriage in regards to decision making on behalf of a loved one, or other things involving financial and tax matters for those involved n committed relationships, things that could be covered under a civil union. The problem I have is that they want it to be called marriage, and to me, marriage should not be redefined.

In the interview mentioned above, Elder Oaks talked about homosexuality, he taught, "homosexuality...is not a noun that describes a condition. It's an adjective that describe feelings or behavior." (9)

Another point that stood out to me as I read the interview is that "same-gender attraction did not exist in the pre-earth life and neither will it exist in the next life. It is a circumstance that for whatever reason or reasons seems to apply right now in mortality, in this nano-second of our eternal existence.(35)" (Wickman, 2012) 

I also loved Elder Oaks statement that "God loves all of His children. He has provided a plan for His children to enjoy the choicest blessings that He has to offer in eternity. Those choicest blessings are associated with marriage between a man and a woman by appropriate priesthood authority to bring together a family unit for creation and happiness in this life and in the life to come."

I really enjoyed reading the inspired words from these two men. I know what they said is true. Although I do not know why people are asked to struggle with same sex attraction, I know that if they are faithful to their covenants that they will have the opportunity to progress in the next life. I hope I don't ever come across as bigoted or hateful. I really do have compassion for people who struggle with this, including many friends. But I also feel frustrated that the will of the people (voters in many states) can be changed on a whim to satisfy the desires of approximately 2% of the population.

Here is another great post on SSA.