Articles written by Tom Koecke in Relationships & Family

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About me - Tom Koecke

With thirty years experience in consumer finance, having raised two daughters as a single father, and trying desperately to get through my second childhood, I bring two things to the table when I write: an overload of experience, and a sense of humor!

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Relationships & Family > Gay & Lesbian Issues Should gays and lesbians be allowed civil unions but not marriage?: 1 of 36
There is growing support for allowing gay men and lesbians to file quasi-marriage licenses distinguished as civil unions. Those who support the concept are those who would otherwise deny these people marriage licenses, except they are losing court cases. It lacks the integrity of equality because it is "separate but equal." ... More..
Relationships & Family > Tips for Marital Happiness Should couples live together before getting married?: 146 of 275
Certainly there are faith based exceptions; that is individual choice. Regardless of how society feels, if a person chooses to not cohabitate before marriage because he or she feels it is not right, then the issue is resolved for that person. To do otherwise will cause unnecessary conflict with one's conscience. Also, circum... More..
Relationships & Family > Family Bonding The importance of talking to your kids about sex and drugs: 16 of 30
Parents are confronted with mixed messages about the best way to deal with children on the issues of sex and drugs. The mixed signals confuse us about what to do next. Children are confronted with mixed messages about the best way to deal with parents on the issues of sex and drugs. The mixed signals confuse them about what ... More..
Relationships & Family > Gay & Lesbian Issues Marriage should be a sacred institution between only a woman and a man: 206 of 316
The question is very misleading and unfair, in my opinion. Gays and lesbians already can and do enter into sacred vows in front of witnesses, just as heterosexual couples do. The difference is they are not allowed to record a document with the auditor's or recorder's office. To not allow our brothers and sisters the liberty ... More..