Just to get the ball rolling in here... the term "marriage" has no real effect on the relationship me and my wife have. We would be just as content and happy if it were a "civil union". I think they should do away with marriage certificates and make it to where EVERYONE, who wanted the benefits that go along with a "marriage", had to go get a civil union. That takes the term marriage away from the state (where it doesn't belong) and puts it right back in the chapel. It seems like a win-win for everybody. Everyone gets the equal rights and treated the same. And for those of you who believe in a biblical definition of the word "marriage" you still have the ability to have a marriage ceremony at your chapel or place of choice with your ordained minister or individual of choice and the blessings of your particular god and family and friends. Gay people getting married has no effect on MY marriage. And if we flipped the boat... I bet my civil union with my wife would have no effect on the civil unions of gay couples. I wish that is the route states would take. You "save traditional marriage" and everyone gets the same rights and SHOULD be happy. I have a feeling some people wouldn't be happy with that though. Just a hunch! hehe