What are people afraid of? Why are people worried about allowing same-sex marriage? How will allowing two committed individuals the privilege of being recognized as life partners under the law hurt them? Why is homosexuality a threat to some people?

I have my own belief system about life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. I am a law-abiding citizen who respects the laws of my state and my country, and I respect the rights of others to believe differently. In fact, I am fascinated with others' beliefs, whether I agree with them or not, and I truly love engaging in healthy conversation about differences. This country was founded on the belief that all are created equal and that individuals have the right to their own beliefs.

Honoring a commitment between two caring individuals under the law is not going to hurt anyone.

To think that educators will begin to "teach" homosexuality in the schools because life partners of the same sex are recognized is ridiculous. Will homosexuality go away because people don't talk about it?

Since the beginning of time, men and women have followed their biological urges as they were granted; people just didn't talk about it. And now, in this "free" society, strides have been made to recognize that each person is an individual who cannot change his or her gender.

Let's open our minds and hearts to fellow members of the human race and grant them the rights that they are being denied.

Jean Domaingue, Lewiston