rights were not up for discussion? it is a older male friend of mine. he lives in europe. i want to respond but i want to do it in a nice and respectful way.
I would remain respectful and explain that you respect his right to an opinion. However, it is just an opinion, and yours is different. You could also break down his objections in a discussion and take on points one by one, but remain friendly, or agree to disagree.
...i admire you for wanting to respond respectfully, which is not something many would do (including me, id be a tad bit *alot* rude)
simply tell him that his opinion is just that! it is HIS OPINION.
Assuming you live in the United States, tell him about your freedom to speech, you are not harming him in anyway...and if he feels that this topic will make him mad, then he can quit corresponding..his loss...But you are not about to conform to his opinion that equal rights is not up for discussion...Because it is..it is a BIG deal in todays society.
okay that was nice me.
a@@hole me would mainly consider saying:
Oh? Then what about divorced people? They are sinners. Do they have rights?
Anyway, this older friend sounds awfully close-minded. Why waste your breath talking with a person who is already quite sure he is right and everyone else is wrong?
However, if he knows you like guys, maybe if you remind him the conversation is about *you* then maybe he will back off from his bigotry.
Good luck with trying to discuss the subject with such a close minded individual. He believes his way of thinking is the only way it should be and will not tolerate any debates that will counter his points.