The outcome of the Miss USA Pageant has caused a stir. The first runner-up may have been penalized by the judges for not providing the politically correct answer on the issue of same-sex marriage.

What do you think? Should a contestant for Miss USA express her disagreement with same-sex marriage when asked a direct question? Shouldn't controversial questions have been asked of all finalists?

It seems to me that free speech, especially when offered in a courteous, sincere and honest manner, should never be punished or ridiculed. That said, I think it is necessary to regularly express one's views in order to send a message to those who seek to intimidate rather than engage. The right of free speech, like a muscle, needs to be exercised to remain strong.

By the way, I agree with the first runner-up on the issue of marriage. It's for opposite-sex couples.