I am an independent voter, and I am all for same-sex couples getting the same inheritance rights, tax breaks, etc., as I do as a man who has been married to a woman for 38 years. I don't understand same-sex unions, my religion speaks against it, but let's not even go there because I respect your right to love whomever you want.

What I don't understand is why people in these unions want to use the traditional term "marriage." I'm OK with all the rights and privileges that they want — but in regard to these relationships, I just have to say, find your own word!

J. Rogers, Baltimore