Commitment

Data from Europe suggests that national recognition of same-sex partnerships leads to significant reductions in syphilis rates, according to a new study by a Swarthmore College economist.

“The evidence shows these laws could dramatically reduce risky sexual behavior and the social costs of some sexually transmitted infections,” says Thomas Dee, an assistant professor of economics. “However, the results may be even more important because of what they suggest are the likely effects of gay marriage on the degree of personal commitment in same-sex relationships.” (source)

Don’t you find it strange that people are surprised that the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases goes down when relationships are socially recognized? It’s an interesting study, but one that I find totally logical.

If you are told that society does not recognize your relationship or hold it in any regard, why should anyone, including ourselves, honor it? The answer is, in many cases, the relationship is viewed by those in the relationship just as society sees it - a second class relationship that is not worth supporting.

If we are all totally honest, we will admit that there are times when it seems like we should just give up. Why be committed at all if no one else gives a damn. Many couples will fall into this. Many will not be monogamous, and that’s too bad.

I firmly believe that if society would give us equality and a ceremony to honor our vows to one another, it would make a huge difference. It is important. Any heterosexual couple who has looked each other in the eyes and taken their vows will tell you, it’s important.