Over the course of this year, I have remarked, in subtle and not-so-subtle ways, how that I’m glad to see American society progressively moving in a secular direction—and not one which abandons the idea of “God”, but rather marries such concept with the commons sense of a forward-thinking society.

Today, President Obama took a historic grand-step in becoming the first U.S. President to directly and openly endorse gay marriage. Such stand only adds to my elation at the rise of secular America. Hitchens would be proud.

Granted, President Obama is also a self-professed man of faith.  In pastimes the “conflict” here would have been so apparent. But this time around, there was no conflict and only the most extreme of the religious right retaliated with the semblance scorn. It seems that most of us have just agreed to agree on this one. Indeed, this is just another example of how religion has been losing its power over the politics and mindset of our nation. Apparently, now we can have “faith” and be gay too…and get married.

Which begs the question, “So where does the faith stand on gay marriage these days?” Of course, it’s standard practice for devotees to quote the ancient book. But most will add a disclaimer about how their personal beliefs extend acceptance toward same-sex practices. And it is that personal disclaimer which has arrested the throne of religion, and now stands to crown king the very nature of free thought itself.

Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the Age of Aquarius.