My $.03
2) I also feel marriage is a religious ideology. The government should recognize "civil union" and all couples who declare their intent to be together should file certificates of civil union with the government to get access to those certain benefits afforded appropriately. "Marriage" being a religious institution should continue to be so. If you want to get married in church, great, go for it. But to get access to government benefits (spousal rights, tax deductions, etc.) you have to file civil union. It's not a permit mind you, it's a declaration.
ok, you said it better than me..... you win, here is a cookie