Participating in speech and debate has been more than just an extracurricular activity, it has been a journey of personal growth, confidence, and deeper faith. Through my experiences, I’ve learned not only how to communicate effectively but also how to share my Christian faith with clarity, conviction, and compassion. Speech and debate have shaped the way I approach conversations, teaching me to engage with others in a way that reflects both truth and love. Debate, in particular, taught me that sharing my faith isn’t about winning an argument, it’s about fostering meaningful discussions. In debate rounds, I had to carefully listen to opposing viewpoints, analyze arguments, and respond thoughtfully. These skills have been invaluable when discussing faith with others. Many people have questions, doubts, or even misconceptions about Christianity, and debate prepared me to approach these conversations with patience and understanding. Rather than simply stating my beliefs, I learned to ask thoughtful questions, acknowledge different perspectives, and present my faith in a way that invites discussion rather than division. One of the most important lessons debate taught me is that people aren’t just looking for answers-they’re looking for someone who will listen. Sometimes, the best way to share the gospel isn’t by immediately presenting evidence or theology but by demonstrating Christ’s love through the way we engage in conversation. Debate helped me realize that truly listening to someone’s concerns and responding with kindness can often have a greater impact than a perfectly crafted argument. Speech, on the other hand, helped me find my voice and gave me the confidence to share personal stories and important truths. Whether delivering a persuasive speech or performing an interpretive piece, I learned how to connect with an audience on an emotional level. Storytelling is a powerful tool, and Jesus Himself often used parables to communicate deep truths. Speech taught me how to share my testimony in a way that is engaging and relatable, making it easier to express why my faith is so important to me. Perhaps the greatest impact speech and debate had on me was strengthening my own faith. In preparing arguments and speeches, I had to study Scripture more deeply and wrestle with tough questions. Why do I believe what I believe? How do I respond when someone challenges my faith? These moments of preparation pushed me to seek wisdom in God’s Word and trust in His guidance. As a result, I became not only a more skilled communicator but also a more confident ambassador for Christ. Because of these experiences, I now approach conversations about faith with both boldness and humility. I’ve learned that sharing the gospel isn’t just about speaking, it’s about listening, loving, and meeting people where they are. Speech and debate didn’t just prepare me to communicate they prepared me to share my faith with purpose, compassion, and unwavering conviction. Whether I’m in a one-on-one conversation or speaking in front of a group, I feel equipped to share the hope of Christ with confidence and grace.