Everyone is allowed to have their beliefs. Why is it that everytime a Christian speaks out, he is attacked! This company has always stood behind their Christian beliefs. What's the big deal?! Once again, "The Land of the Offended! Get over yourselves! Find something constructive to do!

If the business community throughout America operated with the same Christain principles that is the bedrock foundation of Chick-fil-A, I am absolutely certain that said businesses would see an improvement in overall performance from the top down and the bottom up. I support Dan Cathy's right to express his Christian values publically 100%. If anyone is/was offended by what Dan Cathy said, they need to take the matter up with God. He is the one who set the standards.

Don't folks understand the 'biblical definition' of a family? It doesn't just mean a man and woman. It also means having children within a marriage, staying faithful to your spouse, being honest, selfless, patient, humble, gracious, gentle..... Are these also reasons to boycott Chick-fil-A? People can't just pick and choose which Christian values they agree with, it's all or nothing. That means believing in the biblical definition of marriage but loving everyone, regardless of sexual orientation, marital status, etc. It means being honest, gracious, faithful, selfless, honest, joyous and humble. What's so terrible about that?

Jimmy Orr, I agree with every thing you said. I couldn't have said it any better. Really tired of all the attacks on individuals that actually take a stand and express their Christian values. How is it that people like Reuben Ryder can state that "Christians are offensive" and I haven't seen any one attack his comment! Christians are the true original founders of this country. He should go check his history. Dan Cathy I am proud to stand behind/with your statement.

Again, it’s government interference that has helped foster this rift – and given politicians a platform on either side of the issue. Just more votes at whatever cost – even if it is dividing a population. As I said on Facebook, my thoughts on this are that it's not the government’s role to decide on who should marry whom. I don't have a say in my children's marriages, so I don't see why the government should. Let the churches make the choice. Without leaving the country you can’t choose your government, but you can chose to go to another church if it is too inclusive, or not inclusive enough, for you. Grant civil unions to everyone if you have to, but better yet, we wouldn’t even need civil unions if they would just throw out the huge tax law that imposes penalties on people based on whether or not they are married. The more government encroaches into the personal lives of its citizens, the more it divides a population. OK, as Deanna would say, getting off my soapbox now.

I am tired of the verbal attacks against those who take a biblical stand on marriage. If those crazy people have a right to their belief, why can't we have a right to our belief. God is smiling on Chic-Fil-A now. May their business expand.

Dan Cathy has worked to strengthen marriages for many years, and he has put his money into encouraging strong marriages. He actions are based on his Christians beliefs. I have seen nothing in my dealings with Chic-fil-A that would indicate that they are "against" anything or anyone.

I'm with Sharon, Jimmy, Yvonne, Sam and Gregg. There was a recent Gallup pole that revealed much of America thinks the gay population is as much as 25%. Actually, they only make up 3.5%. I have no problem with gays other than I think two guys together is gross, ick. If that's what does it for them though, have at it. My point is that Chick-fil-a will not be hurt by this at all. In fact, sales number may actually go through the roof over it. I do not belong to a church but would never begrudge any man for his own religious beliefs. Chick-fil-a is an important contributing member of our community. Hmmmm....I think I will go to Chick-fil-a for lunch today, yum!

Very proud of Chick Fil A for standing up to what they beleive in. I think I will be eating more chicken now. So let's all go get us some good old Chick Fil A right now

as grant wrote - Mr Cathy throw piles of money into lobbying the government to forcibly apply your religion on everyone. where is the separation of church and state- one nation under God- all equal- this country was and is based on Hypocritical statements and actions- love the sinner hate the sin- sounds like some can not even love the sinner....it is all politics, power and sales-

Grant-It's his money. He broke his back building what he has from nothing. He is entitled to do as he wishes with his money. If you don't like it, maybe you should consider breaking your back, making something of yourself and then counter-act his contributions. I am not a church-goer but I always respect a hard-working man who stands up for what he believes in. Lazy naysayers are a dime a dozen.

No, Grant, with no backbone to put his last name on the line. What I am saying is that I share the same views as Mr. Cathy when it comes to the Biblical standards for marriage. As for you comapring me with the Westboro Baptists, I would say that is about as low as you could get. I respect your beliefs and I expect you to respect mine.

(suppressing the obvious humorous "Brokeback Mountain" retort)

Mike,
Yes it's his money and he can donate to the Nazis and the Muslim Brotherhood if he so chooses. I never suggested otherwise . What he cannot do is actively support hatred and forced religious compliance without reasonable people responding against it.
He has every right to be a bigot attempting to wield the Bible as a shield to excuse his actions,he can join the Westboro folks and protest on the sidewalks too and the sensible amongst us can and will exercise our rights to call him out on his nonsense..

Simple isnt it?

I support Chick Fil A for standing strong in their Christian beliefs. I have always enjoyed Chick Fil A and will be eating it more frequently. God bless you Mr. Cathy!

August 1 is being touted as a "Support Chick Fil-A Day". I suggest that those of us who are NOT afraid to do so, go buy a chicken sammich that day. Those like Grant can stay away and pout about how awful life is when the majority is happy about something.

Awww , a personal shot? I didnt know you cared Ed>

Have fun at the hate rally, y'all gonna deep fry a cross ?

We all reserve the right to believe whatever; without being attacked! Chick-Fil-A should have the same right! They are fully aware of the possible drawback of voicing their believe; and they are more than willing to face the consequences. All these attacks simply show how many hypocrites are out there.

Hypocrites?

I agree that Chick Fila has every right to believe as they choose and they have every right to barf their bugnutty beliefs. They also have the right to donate to the Nazi's if they want to.
People that disagree with those beliefs and donations also have the right to vice that disagreement there Treckoj..

See how that works?

true, it is his money, but if he believed his "christian" ways so deeply he would do more with his money and give NOTHING to a political party, giving more to help others less fortunate and do it quietly no matter what their beliefs: politics + religion = less love for one another as HUMANS everyone knows controversial topics mean discussions about the business and topic which is a form of advertising- good or bad it is advertising MORE BUSINESS-$$$$$

Personally I thought Cathy's statements were fairly benign. however they did manage to highlight the fact that CFA gives millions to advocacy groups that promote a decidedly hate filled anti-gay agenda. Every dollar you give CFA is helping fund these groups. http://www.lgbtqnation.com/2012/07/this-is-why-chick-fil-a-sucks/

I quit patronizing CFA years ago when a very hard working young lady came to work for me after leaving the company because she felt discriminated against for becoming an unwed mother. Unfortunately I'm afraid all this flap has managed to do is give CFA a great deal of free publicity.

If anyone has a problem with his stance on marriage they can take it up with God. Gods word defines marriage being between a man and a woman. I'm fed up with Christians being attacked for standing up for whats right. Come on everyone eat at chick fillet and show your support.

Before any more of you post hateful things about Chick-fil-a, I suggest you get online and look at all the charities they help. Get some idea of the very real and valuable contributions they make to society every day. That company does more good in the world than many of you could ever imagine. Mr. Cathy isn't perfect but he is a good man.

The homosexual community and their sympathizers are so sensitive when people don't condone their lifestyle. But if you want to see hateful, make one of them mad.

Awww,
You guys have hurt feewings?

Think about this. I'm told followers of Christianity are chareged with "The Great Commission".. Please tell me how choosing exclusionary tactics and investing in and supporting hate groups somehow "brings more people to Christ">
It would seem to serve the opposite cause,maybe thats why your numbers continue to dwindle?
,

It is my understanding, from what I've read, that Cathy didn't say he was against anything. However, when asked he truthfully said what he is in support of. That makes those who speak out against him appear just a tad more intolerant than those who are against who he apparently didn't speak out against. In looking for arguments to support this stand, people are now looking to the charities he supports. However, he supports many charities. We are all guilty of buying shoes and clothes that are made in sweatshops, eating food that was maybe not garnered in the most humane ways and a list of other things that we inadvertently participate in even when it goes against the mainstream belief system. Maybe we should all try and do a better job of adhering to the "live and let live" mantra.

Sharon,
Seriously?
The guy "speaks " with his money and his words. Let's not attempt to make his statements more palatable. What he said and who it referenced is crystal clear and it's simply wrong to try and soften the guys statements with horse puckey>
Let the man own his words

"I think we're inviting God's judgment on our nation when we shake our fist at him, and say, you know, we know better than you as to what constitutes a marriage.
And I pray God's mercy on our generation that has such a prideful, arrogant attitude to think that we would have the audacity to try to redefine what marriage is all about. "

Dan Cathy on ken Coleman's radio show in June. English isnt that difficult.

Not all Christians financially or spiritually support 'hate groups' just as not all Muslims are terrorists. I don't know where some people get their information from but Grant, you seem to have a warped idea of what Christianity really is. To be a Christian is to follow Christ and strive to live as He did. Love the Lord with all your heart soul and mind and love your neighbor as yourself, gay or straight. Christ loved everyone, the prostitutes, homosexuals, lepers, even the very people who tortured and killed him. Just because someone does not share my beliefs doesn't mean that I hate them nor does it mean that I judge them. Don't clump all Christians into the same boat and say we are like the Westboro baptists just because we all think marriage as intended by God is between a man and woman. Do you think Mother Teresa was such a hateful woman because of her Christian values? No. Just relax and believe what you will and stop trying to force your ideals onto everybody on this forum. We love you regardless and will pray for you. I'll say an extra prayer before I have my dinner at Chick-fil-A on Wednesday.

ALL OF U R BLASSFEEEMERZ!!!!!1

THEIR ISS NO GOD BUT CIELING CAT & TUNA IZ HER PROFFETT!!!!1!1!!111

Seriously though, this is what most of you sound like right now: http://xkcd.com/386/

Grant, after reading all of these posts, the one that made the most sense of yours was the Saturday one u wrote at 7:45 p.m. It was to the point and not so angry. I wish I knew what Christian had treated u so badly. Because surely they were not one at all. Christians are just like any other individual. We screw up or make huge mistakes. Yes, we have some major blemishess on our history. Who's history doesn't? American history is covered in it from the KKK, to the Colorado shootings, etc...But, not all Christians should be held guilty for the Christian organizations that are insane like the ones that burned the Muslim Bible, the church that protested a gay soldier's funeral, or unfortunately, the most recent; where a stupid group of people would not allow their preacher to merry a black couple. Jesus said that His number one law is to love

thy neighbor. Well, the Bible is just like other books when you read it. Except that it's a book of laws that my God has given to me to live by. You must read it in the correct context and time period that it was written for. Also, the old testament is history of where my religion came from, Jesus's birth and life changed most of our laws and beliefs. I may just be naive but I don't see how a man saying that he believes in the union between a man and a woman is hate. I too feel the same way; however, I have many friends and family members that are gay. Do I love them any less? No! But,I do respect their decision and opinions to do so. I'm a daily sinner and can pick out the fakes in my religion just as easy as you can. But, realizing that no ones perfect and trying to be the best Christian that I know how to be, will hopefully help nonchristians see that we're not all like the insane ones that get the most publcity. And no, I'm not as good of a writer as my husband.

Windy,
I dont know what posts you are reading. I have no issue with those Christians who follow their faith , live their lives and allow others the same . As a matter of fact I think I posted something similar to that in the post you referenced.
For that matter I take no issue with Christians, Muslims, Jews, Rastafarians, Homosexuals, ethnic groups, furrys or transgendered bisexual aliens from the planet blaaaaarrgghhh. Their business , beliefs and choice of spouse are theirs alone and I would never dream of injecting my opinion , or worse, funding a group intent on manipulating the government to invade their most personal choices.
I have my personal beliefs and they apply to my life and how I live it. I respect the right of others to live by their beliefs.
I take issue with those that would foist their beliefs on to others and expect them to abide beliefs they dont share>
It's an extremely simple idea and it's a shame that by voicing it I am forced to endure personal attacks or the blind assumption that I hate "Christians" or any other group.
And dont sell yourself short, you are easily on par as a writer with your husband and you're much better looking!
Have a nice day

Gays are 3% of our population. I don't understand the big flap. Who cares if they eat at Chick-fil-A, it's not going to matter one red cent to them.

And to set the story straight, Chick-Fil-A dropped the Muppet toys the DAY BEFORE Henson's group said they weren't going to partner with Chick-Fil-A anymore. CFA dropped the toys for safety reasons. But good try henson, act like it was all your idea.

And Grant, you made this statement in the preceding comment you made: "I would never dream of injecting my opinion... "

Then what in the world are you doing?

If you do not like CFA's stance (or the stance of ANY business) on ANY point or service provided, and feel you are supporting their stance by buying from them, then just do not buy anything from them. Let your distaste be known by your absence at the counter. Simple as that.

I have been into CFA many times and expect to continue and have NEVER had anyone try to force their beliefs on me when I visited the store.

I support Chic Fil A....no questions. The company honors the Lord and will be blessed for their stand.

Here's a handy link for everyone. Don't forget now, love you neighbor as yourself, balanced with a little stern chastisement is the best formula. Bring a bag of Chick-fil-A and have a family picnic among friends.
Westboro Baptist Church Picket Schedule: http://www.godhatesfags.com/schedule.html

I enjoy reading everyone's views and sometimes even the people I don't see eye to eye with may help to shape my opinion a little differently. For example, my definition of hate is hurting someone else that is different from me, or not allowing someone to live near me because they are different, or firing someone based on those differences. I have had Muslim students in my classroom over the years. They came from wonderful, supportive, loving families. And, during their time of special prayer or fasting I respected their views and made arrangements for these children to go to the library instead of the lunchroom etc. I would like to say by respecting their views and differences they respected mine and put us on nuetral ground. Who knows, I may have even planted a seed. So, last night, because I couldn't sleep, I pondered how this made the gay community feel. I know they continue to be ostracized and treated ugly by many shallow people. Truth being they are only scared people that want equality for their views. I don't think the CEO was breathing words of hate based on his views. But, if I were gay and to continue to hear that people were against my way of life I would be hurt and frustrated. I just feel people would respect each other more

If they were not always so negative to each others differences. Yes, we believe differently. But, someone cursing and yelling at me will not help me to see a different side. I have heard that a person starts cursing and acting ugly in an argument because they can't find anything more educated to say to win the battle. And, that is soo true. I have been there plenty of times, ask my husband. Learning to talk and puts us on neutral ground instead of accusing the other of hate, etc... And, to allow these states to kick out a business based on its views is a trip back to the Dark Ages. America has been there, and has a huge ugly scar to prove it. Thanks Grant for not eating me alive, lol...

Negative indeed.

Here we have a man/ business voicing and investing in HATRED (by Windy's definition) in the name of his religious beliefs. One would think others of that faith , who's most basic precept is "love thy neighbor" would be appalled , ashamed and embarrassed at these hateful associations.

Instead many of you are crawling all over each other in an effort to support that hatred and denigration (or blatant ignorance) of the beliefs many of you claim to share?
Shameful
Hope all of you have a nice time at the hatefest on Wednesday

Ok, so we boycott a restaurant because the founder states his belief in marriage being between a man and a woman, a belief consistent with his faith. So now, let's plan a boycott of gasoline, because the religious belief of most of the producers is that homosexuals should be executed.

I'm ready for grant to go away !!!!

Well now Bob that is a heck of a point. By the way, i did have lunch at CFA yesterday and the place was packed. It's pretty ironic that our liberal media is strengthening Mr. Cathy's cause. Good job Grant, GD, GW and Brian. You may well galvanize our great nation enough to topple Obama. Keep up the good work.

Now I have the incentive to eat at Chik Fillet every day. I am very proud of Truett Cathy! He should pull out of Boston, NY City, and Chicago.

Yeah Bob ...

Heck of a point indeed I'm SO glad you brought it up . I'm pretty sure those boycotting Chick Fil A are doing so , not just because the guy's stated opinion but due to the fact the he donates millions of dollars to organizations bent on enforcing religious rule upon all of us ,as it is forced upon many of those in oil producing nations that you mention.
Since I dont live in one of those OPEC nations I dont have any right or voice in their government. I can certainly , however, express my displeasure at those here who would force their religious beliefs on all of us >
"Religious Hatred" seems like an oxymoron to me . The celebration of it is just sad

Grant, Dude, you are still buying OPEC fuel from people that want you dead. Instead, you would rather not buy a chicken sandwich from a guy who does a lot more good with his money than you will ever dream of.

Grant, I'm not sure I've seen you this angry before. And I don't know, transgendered bisexual aliens from the planet blaaaaarrgghhh can be pretty damn butch.

That being said, I fully support Chick-fil-a's right to say what they want regarding their beliefs. Don't like it, don't go there. I choose not to patronize Citgo because I don't agree with Chavez's ideas. But, I also think marriage is not something the government needs to get involved in, and nobody really needs to decide who can and can't get married. I may not agree with it, but it's not for me to say. Just one more area the government needs to keep their nose out of.

I also find it ridiculous that any cities can claim to keep Chick-fil-a out. Not their place to decide who does and doesn't come in. The same governors or mayors that would try to exclude Chick-fil-a from their cities are the same ones that would rail against anybody trying to keep out a mosque. Also no business of the government to decide.

I always thought of a marriage as a religious statement. Swearing a covenant between the two parties before God. In this manner, I feel it is a religious thing. Therefore let it stand that seperation of religion and state. The Government should not have the right to say who can and can't get married. Marriage is a Christian word developed for and by Christians. The Vows are covenants.
If Homosexuals wish to make a commitment towards one another let them call it something other than marriage. Then there will be a lot less fights about it. People will do nothing but rally against the Gov if they try to change the meaning of marriage.

So basically it comes down to this...., everyone is upset because the CEO of Chick-fil-A has the same exact views on gay marriage that President Obama had 3 months ago....until his vote pandering epiphany..................

Kind of interesting that no fault is found with Islamic "anti-gay" beliefs in Boston:
http://bh.heraldinteractive.com/news/opinion/op_ed/view.bg?articleid=1061148809

And, the mayor changed his tune while saying he didn't:
http://articles.boston.com/2012-07-27/metro/32869124_1_political-science-gay-marriage-chick-fil-a-stance

Even the ACLU and the New York mayor spoke out against blocking Chick-fil-A from opening new stores:
http://www.christianpost.com/news/aclu-new-york-mayor-defend-chick-fil-a-against-threats-to-block-expansion-79007/

Odd how certain people in our society ridicule other's beliefs in such a way as to beat down any opposition. They can't just state their perspective and go on about their business. They feel they must beat any opposition into submission to their point view. And they do it in the name of tolerance or fairness. They don't believe in public debate, only public derision.

The Chick-fil-A CEO thinks same-sex marriage is wrong, but he didn't demand everyone to agree with him, but those who attack him demand that everyone should agree with their or shut up. Yes, interesting.

Randy, Rham Emmanuel, Mayor of Chicago, supports Louis Farrakhan a big donor to anti-semetic causes (and/ or rather those who stand against anything jewish). This flap is over one thing only- It' a christian thing, and all political given that it's an election year.
I also read something that there's talk about a protest by groups at the funeral of the VP that just died. Surely, they wouldn't sink that low, but it wouldn't surprise me. That kind of smacks of Westboro type behavior. If they did that, you will hear crickets chirping from the other side. It's only westboro if you are a christian. Anyone else can do it and it's "protected speech". Mike, you hit it on the head concerning the oil, and John, believe it or not, they have an excuse as to why it's ok for the president to make that stand (always an excuse- never be humble enough to admit error in judgement). None of this offends me, but when people open these doors through the media and make a circus out of it, you've kind of got to reply to the ridiculousness of it. lol

Chic-Fil-A is still my favorite place to go for some grilled chicken sandwiches mmm mmm. Since Chic-Fil-A's corporate folks announced that they believe in a "Godly-union" of a man and woman, instead of debating why we don't just say: to each their own... and leave it as such. What's with the hateful, and disingenuous comments.

Charles, it seems that was not what happened with Dan Cathy. Those who believe as he does were turned on with a vengeance after his comments were reported. So sitting on one's hands and saying nothing is no longer an option, unless a person agrees with the attacks.

"And you won't eat there because the founder is Christian, tell me more about your tolerance and their bigotry..."

"....I fully support Chick Fil A's stance on gay marriage, because I believe the same way and will continue to support them every chance I get!......."

Let's talk about the worst thing Mr. Cathy ever did. IMHO it was his decision to do away with his Lemon pie. Man I miss that Lemon pie. I'm drooling just thinking about it! Mr. Cathy, please bring back the Lemon pie!!!!!!!

People in committed relationships should be afforded the basic human right to seal that commitment legally, regardless of their sex. All these holier-than-thou people posting on "Christian" values want us to go back to the way things were before....a society where gay people had to hide in fear and marry the opposite sex, regardless of what their inner feelings told them. Then they broke the hearts of their spouses and children when they finally could contain it no longer, decades later. Not to mention how their spouses must have felt when having sex for years with a person who wasn't sexually attracted to them. All the garbage spewing from the mouths and keyboards of "Christian" people who supposedly follow the teachings of a man who said, "God is LOVE" is the reason I abstain from going to church every Sunday and instead pray within my own family and praise our God with our own circle of people, out in God's country. Hypocrites.

Since the theme for WGAU prime sponsor, Franklin Guns ads is "Government is Evil, Buy More Guns!" maybe this guy would make a good mascot for them...!
http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/292922_457274684306954_1338131576_n.jpg

Question - now that Target has come out with an ad that shows its support of gay marriage, is there anyone here who is going to let that have an impact on his or her shopping habits? In this case, the issue is the same, just in reverse.

Charles, what you've basically got here is a man that expresses his opinions, and a group that takes offense that somebody would have a different view. Simply put. I know Grant rails against Christians trying to exert their influence, but it's really no different for the 'non-religious' people. Seems nobody in this world has any kind of patience for people that have different views. While I agree with Grant that those people shouldn't be trying to force people to live by their beliefs, I don't happen to think that anybody really has the right to be offended by somebody else's views. We can discuss, you can be disappointed in somebody else having a point of view you don't agree with, or you can even be angry and offended - but I don't have to change my point of view or keep quiet because you are any of the above.

Based on what is clearly laid out in the bible, marriage is between a man and a woman. When someone says a person can't start a business because they believe that and shouts "you are evil" is the one ramming their beliefs down the other's throat.

Also, why is helping someone change from being gay considered an attack on someone else? If someone wants to change, that should be their choice.

God, please protect me from your "followers."

Odd how those who supposedly believe in "diversity" will use their political position to harm those they don't agree with. I hope at some point that more people learn that sarcasm and derision is not a way to "win" others to their point of view, it's only a way of bullying people.

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/08/01/nyc-council-speaker-christine-quinn-asks-nyu-to-evict-chick-fil/

Mike, there are people who chose to change from being gay and have changed. The problem is those who control the public debate don't allow you to hear those stories.

As Grant points out, the real issue with those who believe in freedom and the right to marry someone you love of the same gender, is that Mr. Cathy contributes some of his legally earned profits to organizations which try to influence and change laws to discriminate against those with differing beliefs. (I don't want the USA to be theocratic; separation of church and state is vital for freedom of religion and freedom from religion, a foundational premise of this country. For the record, I am a Christian.) Those profits were earned through the work of CFA employees who are gay and those who are heterosexual who believe gays have the same rights as them. I feel badly for those employees. Mr. Cathy has a constitutional right to freedom of speech. But that doesn't mean it was right to speak out as he did. Maybe it was a sly marketing plan, especially for the Deep South stores, but he has added hugely to further polarization and divisiveness of the American people. Could it be the Koch brothers and their ilk have influence over him? It's very possible this is more political, in a different vein, than we think. Mr. Cathy's own closets should be very clean of all skeletal sins. Even if he has a pristine history, he's probably very sorry now that he made that statement.

Why aren't the mayors of Boston, Chicago, and San Francisco railing against Jeffrey Bezos and Amazon.com for donating $2.5 million to the group supporting gay marriage in Washington St.???

A large number of American's spoke quite loudly with their wallets against those who have no tolerance for our First Amendment, unless it is something they agree with.

Grant, there's a tremendous difference between being hateful and having an opinion or belief about something and you apparently don't get that. It appears it's only hateful when you disagree. Funny how that works.

He wasn't foul. He simply stated his beliefs. Don't think he mentioned banning anyone. He has a right to express is opinion, as do you. It is my opinion that you are discriminating against him because he doesn't think like you. You don't like his opinion or beliefs? Fine. Don't eat there. But he has a right to voice his opinion. Period.

Wrong again Grant. That is simply your opinion again. You are speaking out very hatefully against something you don't like. I don't recall Cathy being hateful like you are. That's a big difference and you are correct, any reasonable person can see the difference, it's unfortunate you aren't reasonable. And yes, he puts his money where his mouth is. Maybe you should do the same.

Like I said, if you don't like what he said, boycott the restaurant. Sounds like you are just being a drama queen

Really NGW<
You are still missing this? Let's see if I cant simplify it even more so you can understand (I'll try and type slowly so you can follow along)
Lets have a look at my example above shall we,( why ,yes we shall)
Example 1
I dont like Brussels sprouts = I dont eat them . A simple exercise of my personal opinion
Example 2
I dont like Brussels Sprouts = I'll invest millions of dollars to prevent people from eating them...
See the first example is one man's opinion and the action on that opinion. It has zero effect on anyone else . The second example is quite a LOT more than the exercise of one man's opinion. It is an attempt to foist that opinion on others who may not share it .

Now, follow this bit closely, you can even move your lips as you read if it makes it easier (I'm sure no one is looking)
We'll use the same analogy but apply it to the issue at hand

Dan Cathy doesnt like Gay Marriage = So Dan Cathy doesnt marry a man. A simple exercise of his personal opinion

Dan Cathy doesnt like gay marriage = Dan Cathy invests millions of dollars to prevent gay marriage.
See the first example is one man's opinion and the action on that opinion. It has zero effect on anyone else . The second example is quite a LOT more than the exercise of one man's opinion. It is an attempt to foist that opinion on others who may not share it .

Clear that up for you chum?

Diane, I saw what you did there. LOL

So what? Make your own statement, you just don't have to be hateful about it. You can jaw all you want but I can assure you, you aren't changing anyone else's opinion. You spend you money how you want, and he'll spend his how he wants. Isn't that the american way?

And please, don't talk down to me, you can be a rather large arse. I don't treat people hatefully like you do, that's the main difference between you and Cathy.

The answer is plain and simple, right in front of your nose. Either like what he says and visit his restaurant, or don't like what he says and don't visit, no sweat off anyone's back. No one is forcing you to buy anything from them.

And really Grant... based on the way you talk to people, no one really cares what you think anyway.

So , It's all about me again?
Splendid!

NGW writes

"The answer is plain and simple, right in front of your nose. Either like what he says and visit his restaurant, or don't like what he says and don't visit, no sweat off anyone's back. No one is forcing you to buy anything from them. "

Well not exactly NGW....There are indeed other answers that you didnt supply but I appreciate your , rather limited , suggestions .Not only can I choose not to eat Mr Cathy's chicken (which I havent for years) but I can also share MY opinion of his actions and associations . Why, I might even be able to use the internet to discuss those opinions and enlighten those who fail to understand the issues.
As a matter of fact there are a great many options available to me , and since Mr Cathy's actions have brought the discussion to the fore it's even possible that I can find like minded individuals who also wish to share their opinions and educate and enlighten those who have some questions as I have here .
So , Thanks for your suggestions and have a swell day

All this pointless posturing and bickering....get over it people.

Rhelm, under all that pointless posturing and bickering - and I can't help but agree with those terms - both sides of this argument here actually have some smart people. Even though they are unlikely to ever admit it in this forum, my sincere hope is that in the privacy of their own thoughts, they are smart enough to think - hmmm, he or she actually had a point there. You just never know, we might not ever convert anybody to the other side, but maybe, just maybe, it might foster a little more tolerance. And then again, maybe that's just a pipe dream of mine.

Ran across this post that truly has a perspective that can be respected, in my opinion:

http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-823655?hpt=us_bn2

A fair minded, reasonable individual.

You don't "win" with beat downs, verbal or otherwise, but you insure others want nothing to do with you or your issues or anyone that thinks like you.

Randy that was a great read. A reply from a gay man that suports Mr. Cathy! I liked his perspective!

Okay, I've stayed in the cellar trying to shield myself from this "storm of stupid" for a while, monitored the "stupid-forecast", hoping for a break, but so far it's just one EF-5 of dumb after another. Enough!

I cannot stand it when opposing sides use the Bible as a bludgeon against each other in matters like this. Somewhere in there are four books about a guy named Jesus...while alot of scripture is bandied about by both sides is support/mockery of various angles of this, I have yet so see a single red letter on the matter. Conspicuous absence, that. So...you mean to tell me that neither side can tell me that Jesus HATES gay people? You think maybe, just maybe that He didn't?

I don't think He did. As a matter of fact, from what I read, He preferred the company of the "rabble"...the sick, lame, drunk, etc that the religious establishment of the time deemed unacceptable. Does that mean He condoned their behaviors? No, he did not, but instead of forcing compliance to His teachings, He inspired people to follow. The attitude of Christ, I believe, is the same sentiment today we express in support of "seperation of Church and State"

On the other side of this is an arrogant, smirking assault on people's faith. And that's not to say I don't see the point some are trying to make...I do...but the problem is when some equate disagreement with hate, and assume that anyone who disagrees is, by default, filled with hate. Maybe it's by design, maybe not, or maybe it's just indifference to the collateral damage inflicted, but that is how it comes across to me, and I know most of the parties involved. People tend to defend/counter attack when they perceive they are being attacked themselves. This is where it becomes circular and pointless..."You hate gay people!"..."You hate Christians!"..."Your book is stupid!".."You're a godless heathen!"...and on and on. It's pointless, it's stupid, it's diviscive and almost never a true reflection of the parties involved.

So poor David up there has a different opinion...so what? Do assume he is so filled with ahte that he would "skip the middle man" and kill gay people because "the bible says so" is a truly horrible thing to say to someone individually. Making such a blanket statement about an entire demographic of people makes it worse. It displays, and fuels, as much anger (hate?) that it assumes of the other side.

How about we all settle down and have a real conversation about this instead of shouting stereotypical insults at each other? We might actually learn something instead of breeding so much resentment.

Awww... come on Jeff... That's not fair.
Plus I was certain you said you didnt care......more extreme indifference ?
All I did was give some specific financial advice , to a specific individual at his request. The gent DID indeed ask for my recommendation , it would have been rude not to reply.
No broad brush, I used a fine Sharpie

By all means feel free to correct me if I got the scripture wrong, Mr Cathy cites" Biblical" tradition so I assumed the entire book was in play.
I do completely agree that "surely they must die" as oft repeated in thay book is truly a horrible sentiment. I didnt write the book that some of these people attempt to use as a bludgeon or a shield to support their misdeeds.
I had no intention of insulting David, he asked I answered... I suppose I should have suggested he donate money to the Westboro folks? Better tax deduction I suppose but still ..
And yeah , Sharon, It is interesting that offering a different opinion is met with personal attacks . I'll assume those personal attacks come out of frustrsation due to an inability to counter with any sort of coherent intelligent argument.

"Keep on Beating this Dead Horse Thar People"

Both sides have had their say and made their point so , let's move on shall we?

Chick-fil-A did not refuse service to people...the CEO just stated his religious beliefs. I am just amazed at how far this has gone. I have always and will always eat at Chick-fil-A. If they had denied service to someone because of their custom or belief that is a different story. Am I still in America??

I say we find Grant - take him (by force only if needed) to Chick-fil-a & shove as many sandwiches down his throat as required to shut him up :-) :-) idiot

Good, don't eat there, entirely your choice.

A timely quote from today's Upper Room: "We are not the stars in making the music of faith; Christ is."

Suggesting a forced feeding "for Jesus" is as much a fail as telling someone they hate gay people so much they might as well just kill them.

two fails don't make a win. When does it end? Why not just talk to each other instead of just hurling mindless insults back and forth?

I am grateful to live in a country that protects freedom of speech. I wish more Americans understood what this means. We have freedom of speech protections on paper--but, in practice, we obviously have a long way to go.

Jeff ,
Obviously my post was intended to be snarky and sarcastic dude, you know that , you knew it when you read it . We HAVE met ..

It was intentional as , indeed, that's what I'm led to believe to be the "Biblical" views on homosexuality are., we both know I can cite plenty of scripture to support that but it's pointless.

iI'm way more interested to read responses to the question you posed

Jeff writes
" Tell me...based on His own words/deeds, do you think Jesus hates gay people? Or do you just think that some of the people who claim to speak for Him do?"

Since "His own words and deeds" are reported to us many years after they are supposed to occur I'd suggest that "evidence" is pretty sparse. Based on what is written in the Bible I'd think it quite obvious that the practiced quite the opposite of anything that might be construed as hatred (wasnt fond of fig trees though) and certainly would NOT have been standing in the parking lot of a fast food joint in solidarity with a guy that finances hate groups .
In fact if indeed He does or did ever exist I would imagine He'd be quite disappointed and just plain sad at the actions perversion of His teachings and the ridiculous nonsense committed by some in His name

Good question!

Yes I was aware that your commentary was snark...if I didn't I would not trust you with my musical instrument care needs. But without that prior knowledge, of which many folks here have none, that's not mere snark...that's a hateful remark. There's just no other way to read it, man...

To be so flippant to dismiss that kind of rhetoric, yet to be so sensitive to the stuff hurled your way? Now that's taking selective reasoning to an art level. Not that I took as much issue with the "Force feeding for Jesus" remark as I did your "Why not skip the middle man and kill you some fags?" garbage. Tell me, does all your talk get a free pass as "snark" while the stuff from the other side does not? How's that fair?
It's not. It's samey samey, Gets us nowhere and is pointlessly divisive. To engage in one side or the other is to contribute to the storm of stupid, if you ask me.

But, anyhoo...maybe we're getting somewhere with this part...

I agree that the story of Jesus is NOT one that advocates hate. I am pleased that on this point we agree. While I'm not sure it's "hate" to speak an un-PC opinion, or even to fund like-minded groups. That has been debated to death and it is fruitless to engage further. I'm not sure either really hates the other, but it is apparent that few on either side has enough courage to cross the divide and actually engage in anything but hurling insults at each other. THAT truly makes me sad.

I was simply expressing my "right to free speech" just like Grant :-) :-) Not realistic to think anyone would REALLY go kidnap him & force him to eat anything - it was just a fun thought :-) :-) Speaks to just how silly some of Grant's remarks are. This whole thing should end soon HUH??

Awesome...I wonder if anyone besides Grant has anything to say about the question posed...

" Tell me...based on His own words/deeds, do you think Jesus hates gay people? Or do you just think that some of the people who claim to speak for Him do?"

Thus far he's the only one to offer an opinion and...wow!...it's probably not one ya'll might have expected. (scroll up and read it yourselves, it's actually pretty good)

So....maybe we can have a meaningful conversation after all. Anyone else care to chime in?

I have a theory that Georgia Democrat is actually Brian Crawford pretending he is a woman and using a moniker instead of a name to help him stay in the closet.
Come on Brian, we are ok with it, you can tell us.

Grant may know the printed words HOWEVER IF his blabbing is representative of his lifes application of same HE'S LOST Hate the sin NOT the sinner- yes that includes Grant & everyone else. What else is there?! That being said, people following Christ aren't required on any level to like or accept behavior such as that condemed in the Bible (Another one of my "free speech" moments)

After doing a bit of research, I found it worth noting that the “shocking donations” that are being made issue of are groups such as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Focus on the Family. More information is given at this link:
http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2012/08/03/chick-fil-a-controversy-shines-light-on-companys-charitable-giving/

I was wondering why they never seemed to name these "anti-gay" groups. These groups don't seem to fit in the picture that's being painted.

After doing a bit of research, I found it worth noting that the “shocking donations” that are being made issue of are groups such as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Focus on the Family. More information is given at this link:

http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2012/08/03/chick-fil-a-controversy-shines-light-on-companys-charitable-giving/

I was wondering why they never seemed to name these "anti-gay" groups. These groups don't seem to fit in the picture that's being painted.

Hope the good people over @ Kraft Foods are paying attention.

I've noticed that this, as in most internet commentary, the comments tend to reflect more on the the person making them than it ever does the person it is directed towards.

SO, in the end, there's a lot of angry back-n-forth that can be construed as "hate" from one side or the other. I don't think anyone involved really hates anyone else involved, it just seems like intolerance of other views is rampant...on either side of this.

This thread is a tiny slice of the national "conversation"...I think there's an actual conversation happening, but it's not in forums such as this, where people just yell generalities back and forth, not really listening to the other side except to find something in the wording to twist around to sound stupid.

What's the point? That doesn't get us anywhere. Take a moment, stop beating your own ideas into the other side and try...just try...to understand where those other people are coming from.

Dan Cathy's organization's funding....

http://equalitymatters.org/factcheck/201207020001