Reading so much about the definition of marriage and knowing that so many people disagree with what I believe a marriage is and should be is somewhat upsetting. I have a lot of friends and family that believe in same sex marriages and hope for the change in the definition of marriage. I have a very hard time discussing it with them as I love them and want them to be happy, but at the same time I want them to choose the right and be obedient. I have just ignored their choices, while I haven’t openly supported them, I haven’t shared my testimony with them or my personal beliefs. That is why I so appreciated Elder Neslson’s talk in our reading. Especially where he said

“Ponder that! It means that during these perilous times, life will not be comfortable for true disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. But we will have His approval. He gave us this assurance:

And blessed are all they who are persecuted for my name’s sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

I know that I should make sure my friends are aware of the truth and what I believe in. This quote in particular gives me confidence and hope to do just that, become an active defender of marriage.

Another thing that was very interesting was the discussion with Ryan Anderson. He totally agrees with freedom; he wants people to have freedoms to have the choice to vote, but he wants people to choose marriage between a man and a woman because that is the way it is supposed to be. I was so impressed by him, he stood by what he believes. People were sitting in front of him calling him uneducated, ignorant, and sad. But he stood by his belief even though it was difficult. He was very educated and didn’t say any negative things about people who want same sex relationships, but was persecuted for being kind and honest to himself and others. I  really admire this man and how he fought so hard for his beliefs and was kind even in the face of hate and ridicule.