To the editor:

I will support the protection of marriage by voting to ban gay marriage, (the attempt to redefine marriage) for the following reasons.

1. Marriage has been between a man and a woman for 6,000 years.

2. My faith in God encourages me to stand up for what’s right.

3. My faith teaches me respect and tolerance but not acceptance of everything under the sun.

4. In hope that the gay community will seek moderate solutions and leaders.

As a supporter of traditional marriage I don’t hate gays; quite the opposite. I am just standing up for the right thing, and I understand the pursuits for benefits and protections. However, redefining marriage for this social agenda is not the answer. God bless.

Justin Smitley,

Lawrence