Let's just agree to disagree

I know that people are going to get really upset about me saying this, but I can not believe all the criticism Miss California has received since her statement at the Miss USA pageant on Saturday. Actually, the public response to Miss California's remarks has made me really angry. 

First of all, a question so emotionally and politically charged should have never been introduced at the pageant. This question brings up answers that are closely tied to your belief system and should not be mocked or ridiculed on television.  This is not the time nor the place for this type of discussion. The issue of the gays' right to marry is one that splits this country in two, and neither of the sides will probably ever agree. The fact that the judges were only prepared to hear one answer as the "right" one is quite disturbing to me. 

Whether you agree with Miss California's opinions or not, in a republic such as this, we exercise freedom of speech and freedom of thought. These are among the fundamental beliefs in our constitution and we should be prepared to defend them. This country was founded on pillars of freedom–pillars that ensured that we are all allowed to express our opinions without the risk of being persecuted. 

On certain questions we may just have to agree to respectfully disagree. In my opinion, she should be applauded for being brave enough to stand up for what she think is right instead of just saying what the judges wanted to hear.