I have never been so torn in my life. Chick-fil-A is coming to Tacoma and OHMYGOD I can't wait. The food in America's Southern states is to die for, even the damn fast food - including Whataburger, Taco Bueno, Schlotzky's and Chick fil-A, Tacoma's soon-to-be fast food baby.

What pains me is the negative image Chick fil-A's COO Dan Cathy has given my beloved Southern fast-food chicken house. Cathy condemned gay marriage in 2012 setting off store picketing and a social media firestorm, although he has since backed away from such public pronouncements that mix personal opinion on social issues with corporate policy. I love the food at Chick fil-A, love it.  Unfortunately, I am torn between supporting what is fair and right, or supporting my ever-growing waistline with a bag full of chicken biscuits.

My values were becoming clouded with chicken biscuit and waffle fry cravings, so I decided to ask my friends of the LGBT community their thoughts about Chick fil-A. I was hoping to find out whether they'd be patronizing Tacoma's most delicious fast-food establishment when it opens near the Tacoma Mall in the spring of 2015.

First, I called one of my BFFs, Heather. 

Stats: 40 years old, mom, married, Catholic.

CFA Beliefs: She was a perfect mix of values because although she doesn't mind that they're closed on Sunday for religious reasons, she obviously opposes their stance on gay marriage. She respects their right to donate to whatever organization they chose, and with that, respectfully requests that they keep their opinions to themselves.  She will not be spending her money at CFA.  Heather pointed out that some restaurants have a "no children" policy, and that just means that they've lost her as a customer since she can't bring her child.  CFA obviously will be losing a lot of customers.

Picketing? No Boycotting? Yes

Quote: "I don't care if you go, but I won't be meeting you there for lunch or anything."

Next, I called Tacoma's most favorite restaurateur, Gordon Naccarato.

Stats: Over 40 years old, restaurant owner, outspoken Pacific Northwest liberal

CFA Beliefs: Hell no he ain't eatin' there!  Well, those weren't his exact words.  To keep with the Southern theme, I paraphrased his words for you, Southern style.  Again, just as Heather stated, he'd prefer that CFA keep its beliefs to themselves.  Aware that he himself is outspoken about his beliefs and can sometimes rub potential restaurant patrons the wrong way, he noted that CFA's opinion was unforgivable in his book.

Picketing? No Boycotting? Yes

Quote: "As a food person, I'd love to try their sandwiches just to see what all the hype is about.  But I refuse to give them my money."

Lastly, I called on my young family friend, Genesis.

Stats: 24 years old, line cook, Colorado resident

CFA Beliefs: Genesis currently lives near a CFA in Colorado and spends approximately $20 a year on their food.  Although she thinks their beliefs suck, she has made a valid point that reflects the plight of a younger generation. See quote below.

Picketing? No Boycotting? No

Quote: "It is delicious. ... Also, it is cheaply priced, which is helpful for someone who doesn't make any money, such as a 24-year-old like me."

Genesis said something that I think rings true with most Americans, no matter what their sexual, political or religious beliefs might be. "What it really comes down to is this is America and they are fast food and people will eat it no matter what. They would get much more business though, if they just kept food and religion separate. Even though food IS my religion."