Incredibly here in Australia we continue to be subjected to an ongoing debate as to whether certain persons of the same sex, most of whom presumably already cohabit relatively formally, should be allowed to marry.  Sometimes Australian society and its institutions exhibit characteristics beyond rational explanation.

Of course, and in defence of the wider community, we all know that the fact that there is a continuing question about this seemingly simple proposition is a product of a government that holds positions that fly in the face of the views of that community (currently it seems that something around three-quarters of the population are in favour of marriage equality), and results from the impotence of an increasingly weak leader struggling to paper over a government that is wracked by multiple schisms.

Among a range of reasons advanced by those opposed is a claimed concern for the children of same sex relationships, expressed as “I believe that it is best for children to be raised by a biological mother and a biological father”. Note the term “I believe”.

I have yet to hear any proponent of marriage equality argue that this belief should be denied to those that hold to this position. If that is their belief they should be entitled to follow their conviction in how they manage their lives and relationships. That should not, however, extend to foisting their beliefs on others in circumstances where the adoption of a different view does not have any negative impact on their ability to adhere to their life choices.

I might have missed something here but I do not recall any suggestion that same sex marriage should be compulsory for all.

Honest self-analysis would suggest that I am not totally comfortable with the concept of same sex relationships, no doubt a product of cultural and religious influences over seven decades. Why should that be a relevant factor, however, in the commitment choices others make about how to pursue their own happiness and fulfilment.

In fact, why is it a question for our so-called political leaders at all?