Five days out from a major presidential election, and which political controversy seems to be the loudest in CA? -- Proposition 8! I realize this is a highly charged topic, but I have to get a few words out there in response to the chaos.

First, this issue should not even be a political issue - at least, not in this century. Having a law that allows some people to get married, but not others, is discriminatory. Emotion-based discrimination has no place in the law. I don't care what your personal feelings are about gender and sexuality, or whether you're conflicted about your own; these emotions and perceptions are very personal and individual.

Second, the image of "children" used in the pro-Proposition 8 ads and signage is baffling. What do kids at school have to do with legally allowing or disallowing marriage? Regardless of the legal status of same-sex marriage, teachers and parents will continue to teach their kids what they will.

(Why is it that those who would control what others do with their private time and beliefs yell the most, while the more tolerant tend to show respect for personal opinions?)

'Nuff said?

Let's go back to worrying about how the country will be run for the next four years, how we're going to fix our repressed economy and our negative global image, and how we're going to improve our access to healthcare and education in every state.