How to Accept Same Sex Marriages

Same sex marriage can be a startling new idea to those who have long thought marriage was an institution only to be entered into by a man and a woman. Today, however, same sex marriages are being legalized in many places around the world including the state of Massachusetts. Many individuals find it difficult to accept such a fundamental change in such as established institution.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Face your feelings. If you are having difficulty accepting the concept of same sex marriage, write out all the reasons why so you can identify the core issues. Once these are identified specifically you can better work through them.
2. Make friends with gay and gay-friendly people. Chances are once you know someone as an individual you will be more accepting of their sexual orientation, which will lead you to be accepting of same sex marriages.
3. Talk about your concerns with friends, both heterosexual and homosexual. Be as honest and tactful as possible and listen to their reactions and advice. Try not to enter these conversations with any preconceptions.
4. Spend time with same sex couples. The more you interact with gay married couples, the more you understand their relationship is essentially the same as that of heterosexual couples. Give these friendships time to develop, as closeness promotes acceptance.
5. Read about gay marriage. There are a multitude of articles in newspapers, magazines and books devoted to the subject with persuasive arguments supporting same sex marriage and insights concerning the acceptance of these unions.
6. Participate in events in which same sex married couples are likely to be in attendance, such as political rallies and marches. Listen to the speakers and carefully consider their views even if they differ radically from the opinions you have heard most often in your life.
7. Keep an open mind and heart. Remember we are all members of the human race and seek to celebrate our diversity. The acceptance of same sex marriage will come to those who have the desire to accept and the willingness to learn.