FRIDAY STIR FRY - What a Week!

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I don't usually get into political or religious discussions because there is no sense in it. You can't change people's minds no matter how hard you try. But, so much has happened lately, I really feel the need to express my opinions. And it is my blog after all.

Today when the news came over the radio, that the Supreme Court decided to extend marriage rights to all people, I was ecstatic. I have many friends whom this issue affects. I can't tell you how happy I am for them today. Not only can they proclaim their commitment to each other, they also are now granted the same rights as other married couples. Insurance benefits, hospital visits and end of life decisions just to name a few. Things the rest of us have taken for granted.

And in another decision, the Court upheld the Affordable Care Act. Anybody who knows me at all understands how much I hate our health care system. There is no reason a person should have to file bankruptcy because they get sick. No reason for a person to not seek medical care because they can't afford it. Our health should not be at the mercy of for profit insurance companies and hospitals. There is still a long way to go on this issue, but at least one good change has been upheld.

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Now, to that other flag. Man, oh man, so much controversy. It is sad a tragic event caused this debate, but that seems to be the way of our world. And living in a somewhat southern state, there are opinions swirling around these parts like a nest of mad hornets. There is talk about heritage and history, discrimination and hate, gun control and mental illness. We shouldn't forget our past or we are destined to make the same mistakes. But, we also shouldn't glorify a piece of history that caused so much pain to a large part of our population. It is unfortunate this flag, in some people's hands, promotes hate.

As wonderful as our country is, we still have a lot to learn about getting along with each other.