Now that the election is over, I would like to address the label I have worn in some circles because I chose to vote "yes" on Question 1.

The label is that of "hater."

I learned about this label when a friend told me her grandchild pointed at a "Yes on 1" sign in front of a house and said, "Those people are haters."

Like the majority of those who voted "yes" on 1, I am not a hater.

In fact, I did not take this vote lightly. As an Episcopalian, I have put a lot of time and energy into dealing with this and related issues since the election of Gene Robinson as bishop of New Hampshire. I read both the Bible and writings by Robinson, listened to people on both sides of the issue, written (and received a response from) Robinson and prayed for the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

In the end, I felt it right to vote the way I did.

Because I believe marriage should be between a man and a woman does not mean I hate anyone.

I did not jump up and do a happy dance when I heard that Question 1 was passed. Instead, I prayed for those whose hopes were dashed by this vote. May their aching hearts know the healing power of Jesus Christ.

Dale W. Morgan

Gardiner