As pointed out in recent articles, Cumberland is a very conservative area.
When it comes to traditional conservative values like individual liberty, an emphasis on a small government, the recognition of the importance of family as an institution, and equal justice under the law, I have to say that conservatism is right on all counts.
Liberty is defined as “freedom from arbitrary government control.” I don’t think anyone wants the government to deny them the right to live as they see fit, provided that they aren’t hurting anyone.
A true conservative does not want excessive government involvement in the lives of peaceful citizens. Liberty is inextricably bound to the idea of small government. A government that is big enough to deprive a huge percentage of its population of rights afforded to the rest of its citizens is a government that is too big.
I don’t want big government kicking in my front door and telling me, for instance that I have the wrong political opinion, or that I enjoy the wrong hobbies.
It would be far worse for big government to tell me that my family configuration is not on an approved list, and is therefore illegal. That kind of big government control over the private lives of its citizens is downright terrifying.
Unfortunately this is the terrifying reality for many in our community. If you stand for strong conservative values, you must accept that an oppressive, big government that denies some of its citizens equal treatment under the law by depriving them of the choice to participate in one of our most foundational institutions, is a government that is too big, and must be corrected.
True conservatives stand for limited government, liberty, justice, and family, and should therefore support the equal right of every citizen to marry the consenting adult of their choice.
There are others in our community who would prevent our LGBT brothers and sisters from achieving equal rights through an appeal to scripture, instead of the force of big government.
This would appear to be an easy objection to overcome: If your church does not support a certain view of marriage, your church is not and never will be obligated to embrace that view.
The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prevents the government from interfering with religious matters, and churches are and will always remain free to define marriage in any way they choose.
The First Amendment is a double edged sword however, as it also prevents religion from having an undue influence on government. If government opposition to equal rights for all is grounded in religion, it is unconstitutional.
If, as an individual you oppose equal rights because of Christianity, I would refer you to Matt 22:36-40 in which Jesus states that the greatest commandment (after loving God) is to love your neighbor as yourself. He also says in Matt 7:12 “do to others what you would have them do to you.”
If you are a Christian who opposes marriage equality, ask yourself honestly: how would you feel if a large majority of the fellow members of your community told you that you love the wrong person, that you are not and can never be a real family, that your very existence is a threat to my family, and that to love your spouse literally threatens the fabric of society.
This is not an acceptable way to treat your neighbor.
Conservatives, particularly those who believe in the wisdom of the Bible, should support marriage equality in Maryland.
Christopher Grimsley
Frostburg
Opinion
Conservatives should back marriage equality
- Opinion
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Court should let Affordable Care Act stand
On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act. Polls have shown that Americans are divided over the law, but when survey respondents are asked about specific provisions they become more supportive.
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She was privileged to have known these wonderful friends
As May 31 approaches I am reminded that it will be three years since the death of beloved musician, composer, conductor, educator, humanitarian and friend, Dr. Jon Bauman.
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They will spend their money, why not let them do it here?
I would like to reply to the letter that was on Sunday’s editorial page on May 13 (“Casino will bring problems”).
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They’re going to miss one of their most inspiring teachers
We recently heard, with great sadness, that one of our favorite teachers, Mrs. Carol Shank, will be transferred from Westmar Middle School to Mountain Ridge High School by the Board of Education.
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Better beware of their gifts
“We socialists are not reformers; we are revolutionists,” said Daniel De Leon, an American Socialist and the leading figure in the Socialist Labor Party of America. De Leon was a Marxist, and argued for the revolutionary overthrow of capitalism.
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Invest in downtown area now and keep tourist dollars here
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Sign up now to become part of Relay for Life on June 1-2
Just as the effects of a challenging economy are felt by families in every community, cancer, too, has a far-reaching impact.
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Reward each according to production, investments
The reader’s commentary dated May 18 (“It may be that God would prefer Communism”) is absolutely absurd.
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Besides, they’re not interested in dental health
Dear Governor:
I am writing to thank you for your leadership in the recently called special legislative session to avoid the Doomsday budget. -
Here’s why he prefers the school he’s now attending
School is boring but we all have to go, so choose your school carefully. I attend a Christian school because I don’t have to listen to people cussing, teachers and some class mates are caring, and I’m learning about Christ.
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Court should let Affordable Care Act stand
