I ask readers for their reactions to the following: Sexual intercourse is a sacred act, a gift from God to his children as a celebration of marital love, as well as for the procreation of children. Fornication is a selfish abuse of that sacred gift. Adultery is blasphemy to God’s law, a betrayal of one’s spouse, and a very serious sin.

I hold very strongly to those beliefs; nevertheless I do not seek to make them laws, nor do I condemn — within a public sphere — others who disagree. Yet, a growing portion of Americans no longer distinguish between personal and political beliefs. Traditional beliefs are easily scorned, and often placed dishonestly in a political context.