Wow. These people sound like a-holes. Who would ever marry into a family like that?
I really can't empathize with the sad stories on this thread because I am blessed to live in Texas and literally know no one who will be casting a vote for Kerry tomorrow. But if I were in some of the situations described in these posts, I would find a new place to live, far away from the malicious bullies that I had no choice in selecting as my family. When I relocated, I would find another like-minded family that I agree with (perhaps at my church) and I would make that my family. Life is too short to be stuck with lousy people just because they share a bloodline with you. Think of it as a divorce because of irreconcilable differences that will make your life much happier and less stressful. And lest you think this sounds unloving, may I ask why you want to be kicked around by people who obviously do not love or respect you and get off on harrassing you at family gatherings? They enjoy attacking you and making you miserable, and that's not a sign of love.