Debate.

My middle son was an award-winning debater throughout high school and college. He was a TA (Teacher’s Assistant) with the Communications Department as he worked on and finished his Masters degree. Upon graduation, he was employed as the Director of Debate and taught Communications in Politics for Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. His debate years ended when Augustana eliminated the debate program due to budget issues. 

Many universities eliminated or reduced their debate programs over budget issues. Interestingly enough, football programs flourished despite reduced funds. Stadiums grew larger. Press boxes became more modernized. Scoreboards became more technical and visually appealing. 

And we wonder why the ability to debate civilly is dying? 

During his high school years, I volunteered as a judge at debate tournaments. It was tough. First, because the kids were ten times more informed on issues than me. They did tremendous amounts of research. 

Secondly, it was tempting to side with the team that upheld my personal beliefs. However, that isn’t the purpose of debating. As a judge, my role was to score the teams on how effectively they presented and proved their point. It took an open mind and mature attitude to leave my personal preferences at door and simply listen to both sides of an issue. 

That brings me to the third hurdle to jump when judging. The debaters talked so darn fast!

Let me share what a healthy debate is: 

  1. It’s the willingness to do your research. 
  2. It’s the maturity to see and understand both sides. 
  3. It’s not arguing or yelling. 
  4. It’s not a method to attack those who disagree with us. 
  5. It’s the maturity to stick with the issue instead of demeaning those who oppose us. 

A true debater remains calm and composed. They do their homework, which means they know their stuff. Since they know their stuff, they do not find it necessary to belittle everyone else around them. 

Poor debating skills reveal a lack of preparation and personal insecurity. Despite the fact that meanness and hatefulness have both gained popularity in our culture, neither represent Christ well. 

“Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

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