that actually raises an interesting point. i've always been bothered that the state dictates that some relationships are more important than others. i.e. people who can visit you in the hospital, can dictate your medical treatment in an emergency, who they can't force you to testify against, etc...

we may be born into a family, but we choose who we have tight bonds with- whether friends, lovers, family, or legal spouses. we choose who we trust. you would think enlightened laws would reflect that.

i disagree completely about making marriage only something that belongs with religion though. many people don't have a religion they ascribe to and it really is more about the concept of a legal social contract than anything else. otherwise people could just say they were married and who cares what the law says. the only reason to care is because of the legal ramifications.