Some of us are born left handed. Others must wear glasses or contact lenses. Still others have a sexual orientation different from the norm.

In each of these instances, those involved have had no part in their genetic makeup, nor in the lifestyle to which they have been predisposed. They are simply wired differently. But in spite of their being different, they are nonetheless worthy of being loved, respected and valued by each of us.

This fall we are being asked to vote on a Wisconsin Constitutional Amendment that has the potential of discriminating against persons involved in civil unions, domestic partnerships and/or same sex unions; persons who seek the same privileges as those of us who happen to be involved in a heterosexual relationship.

Before you vote on this referendum item, please first ask yourself: “What if a child of mine, a sibling or another loved were to follow the unique, intrinsic compass with which each of us is born, and enter into a same-sex relationship with a partner for whom they care deeply?” Who among us has the right to judge such a person, much less reject them or discriminate against them?

We are who we are by happenstance of our birth. The Creator has made us in His image, and we are loved unconditionally by that Creator, with no strings attached. Shouldn’t each of us at least try to do the same?

Evil succeeds when good people do nothing, and bad legislation is enacted by good people who fail to vote. Please go to the polls on Nov. 7, and please extend to others the same rights and privileges which you would want extended to yourself and to your loved ones ... by voting NO on this same-sex ballot question.