How To Make a Good Speech

My teacher told me that I have a lot of emotion about my topic for my persuasive speech, and that if I'm not careful, it will sound like I intend to diss someone else's beliefs. So I need to release.

Who are you?

No, really,

I don't know who you are.

You, with the gray hair,

The suit and tie.

I'm sure you're making six figures,

But what does that have to do 

With me?

You see, If you just said you

didn't like my marriage

because of Sodom and Gomorrah,

We wouldn't be here.

We would be discussing American hospitality...

or lack thereof.

How exactly am I an abomination?

You didn't say that last week,

Before I told you I like girls

The way I am

"Supposed" to like boys.

My parents are divorced. 

Maybe that's where I got my 

"sinful ways", but I really

Really.

REALLY.

Don't know what the hell

the "Institution of Marriage" is.

Can one of those crazy old men explain it?

They certainly must know,

I mean, some of them have been married

Three times.

While they are out spreading bullshit around

like jam on toast?

Cause I don't know about them, but I guess

that's just me.

Did you know?

Domestic partnership?

It's not marriage.

I'm not going to ask my girlfriend

to "civil union" me.

I'm going to ask her

to marry me.

We'll get married.

Is that word too uncomfortable?

Does it make you feel better?

To take away my rights?

I am a human.

I am an individual.

For Christ's sake, 

I'm the same as anyone!

I'm just too different.

I'll respect your opinions 

as soon as you respect my rights.

Author's Note

Yes, I know it's kind of long. Yes, I know it's kind of angry. I have to make a kind, understanding speech on Monday, so help me understand your opinions on same-sex marriage! It's not that I'm disrespectful, I'm just kind of clueless as to where people come to certain conclusions. I apologize if I offend anyone, but at the same time I really don't.

Reviews

[cilla]

This is a topic for which there is no right answer but one we each have to come to peace with. Speaking for myself, it is hard to accept the concept of marriage when one out of every three ends in failure. The concept of Women's Liberation for me means not that we want to be equals on that crazy train you're riding but we need to stop the train and everyone get off. Redefining our roles will be better for everyone both men and women. I honestly don't want to accept a concept that defines myself and the woman I love in terms of "accepted" marital roles.

Yes, there is a practical side to this debate. By not accepting the tradition concepts of marriage you are cutting yourself out of traditional benefits of marriage. Legal benefits. Shared healthcare benefits, the ability to act legally in a spousal role and much more.

In my mind there are GLBT issues and Women's issues and there is a lot less overlap than one would think. There is nothing wrong with working to change the definition of marriage to include all but maybe the whole concept of a traditional marriage is out of time with a 21st Century World?

Some ideas to think about. BTW ... thought your piece was well written!

[And She Sings]

Thanks! I can always do some more research on this topic as it is very obviously something I am quite passionate about. The world is moving forward and the way things are perceived is changing. Until this change is accepted we will be trapped by insecurities and the views of generations whose times have come and gone.

[cilla]

Agreed. The more you can learn about a topic the better your understanding. But, most importantly, your beliefs should always be your passion. Sounds simple but with time it can be easy to stray.