The Difference Between "Love" and "Support"

Celebrity controversies are as common as dirt, but who would have expected that the latest dust up would concern Marie Osmond's lesbian daughter. Ms. Osmond, described as a devout Mormon, has expressed support for her daughter and for gay marriage. Ms. Osmond can either be devoted to the teachings of her church or she can favor same sex marriage, but she can’t do both.

Osmond, who turned down the role of Sandy in Grease because she did not approve of the character’s morals, seems to be confused between showing her daughter love and giving her daughter support. As parents we should love our children unconditionally, but we should also withhold our support when they behave in a manner that is inconsistent with our religious or moral beliefs.

It is not unusual for parents to have conflicting emotions when addressing their children’s behavior and Osmond certainly sounds garbled in hers:

“You know, I think each of us has the right to choose who makes that medical decision for us, I think everybody should have the right to share homes and finances with somebody that they care about. You know on those types of things I'm very supportive. When it comes to marriage ... I think that civil rights need to be for all. When you start mixing religion into that and beliefs, you know, I do believe in the Bible. My daughter understands my beliefs. And, and, uh, you know, God said to be married and be productive with your children and, and, you know, replenish the earth or whatever. She understands those things. My daughter is sharp. And we have a great relationship and I think she would tell you that.”

There are already several legal remedies in place that individuals can utilize to insure that their medical and financial wishes are honored. All couples, straight or gay, in committed relationships should have medical power of attorneys and should name of medical surrogate. From a financial prospective, assets can be protected through proper titling and executing wills and trusts. I honestly can’t make heads or tails of the rest of Osmond’s statement, particularly, “When you start mixing religion into that and beliefs, you know, I do believe in the Bible.” Are her religious beliefs central to who she is or not?

Perhaps, before, giving any more statements, Marie should sit down and honestly figure out what she believes and where she stands.

h/t The Other McCain