Religion, homosexuality and a very curious six year old

I am very blessed to have people in my life that are different races, religions and economic statuses. I am even more blessed to have these people in my children's lives. Because of the different perspectives, it has opened up the door to some wonderful conversations with the kids.

Anyone that knows me knows that I am not a religious person so when the topic of religion was brought up I struggled to come up with a way to explain it without letting my feelings get in the way. In the end, the kids were told that religion is like having a favorite color. You love that color and feel with every fiber of your being that it is the best color. My children have come to learn that their "color" may not be the same as their friend's "color" and that is ok. It is ok to have a different "color" and be proud of that "color," but you should never force your "color" on someone or put down someone or their "color." The girls understand that it is all these different colors and all the different beliefs that make the world such an amazing place and it would be a dull world if everyone had the same favorite "color."

Hailey is one of those children that asks questions from the minute she wakes up until well after she should be in bed. It is one of my favorite qualities in her, but it often leads to topics being brought up that I wouldn't expect to talk about with a six year old. Naturally one day she asked why we don't like the other "colors" and this led to the topic of heaven, hell and homosexuality. I am often amazed at the things that come out of Hailey's mouth as she is wise beyond her years. When I explained that many people disagree with two men or two women getting married her response was "if they don't agree with it, then they shouldn't do it. But really, how does it affect them?" I wish I had an answer to that question. She asked me it days ago (and a few times since) and I honestly do not know how it affects others.

Over the last few days I have read hurtful messages in response to Gay marriage from both sides. I do not understand how as adults this is considered ok. Religion is such a personal experience and should be about a relationship between you and your God, not about degrading other human beings. Like I said, I am not a religious person, but everything I have read about God and what I have heard from friends is that God is about loving your fellow man regardless of their sins. I say be proud of your "color" but realize that not everyone feels the same and that is ok.