No, it really does have a lot to do with religious beliefs and institutions because those are examples of the kinds of social communities which define marriage

No, it really does have a lot to do with religious beliefs and institutions because those are examples of the kinds of social communities which define marriage and the kinds of institutions which carry traditional culture. Traditional cultures are where the idea of marriage comes from and cultural communities are what give it any meaning. That doesn't mean all traditional ideas of marriage have been the same, they haven't (any more than cultural ideas of homosexuality or gender-bending have been the same). That doesn't mean you aren't free to choose or make your own religion. but doing so doesn't remove the historical context and social meaning of "marriage." Having me use a certain terminology with regard to your relationship (let alone believe certain things about your relationship) is NOT your civil right. It isn't the government's business to provide financial incentives for "marriage" either. You should be able to have any person you want to visit you in the hospital, however. Could be your horse trainer, why should it matter?