Melissa Etheridge's eloquent and good-hearted defense of Rick Warren is one made of olive branches offered, but unfortunately, no real branches were offered in return.
Peace is a two-way street. Warren might have meant every word he said to Melissa. In fact, from what you wrote, I believe he did. He is not of the mind that equates gays to pedophiles or those who commit incest. He only believes that you and your partner are not equal in the eyes of the Lord or the state as he and his partner are That doesn't make him a monster or a hater. It only makes him a bigot: a person who regards his own faith and views in matters of religion as unquestionably right and intolerant of opinions which conflict with his own.
You said "He explained in very thoughtful words that as a Christian he believed in equal rights for everyone." Unfortunately his thoughtful words to you did not translate into thoughtful words to his congregation. He told you he believed in your right to equality, but his actions show that he will fight to keep you from bringing it to fruition.
He told you he's a fan of your music. It reminds me of the comment concerning race: "he's nice, but I wouldn't want my sister marrying him." How did you like READ THE REST OF THE ARTICLE HERE.
Steve Young is the author of "Great Failures of the Extremely Successful...Mistakes, Adversity, Failure and other Steppingstones to Success" (www.greatfailure.com)