GC- I think that people who still attend the church yet hold opinions that conflict with the church's stance on things are able to do so because they simply don't believe everything the church has taught them. They are able to operate in that 'grey area' you spoke of, and have figured out a way to reconcile the conflicting beliefs- namely, 'don't ask, don't tell'. They attend mass, do all the things that good Catholics do and keep their personal opinions to themselves. John Kerry, the Kennedys, etc, are all examples that we know of because their politics have required that they publically address these issues. They hem and haw and do the usual double-speak when asked about such things as abortion, divorce and that, yet they remain standing members of the church, so far as I know anyway. I think only minor players like us get kicked out.
You're a good person, GC- and an honest one. That's why this is hard for you. You are not a liar, and you won't be a hypocrite. So, start your own religion! I'll join.
