Ask it once, and no one responds because it’s not a debatable question. Ask it a billion times on fliers, sidewalks and newspaper articles, and suddenly people think there’s something to debate. People think the question is, “Do you think I should have a beard?” or “Do you think you should have a beard like me?” Suddenly debates spring up, accusations are slung and everyone is either pro- or anti-beard. All the while, Kirk has the ability to deny he ever asked anything beyond, “Do you think I possess a beard?”

This is precisely what has happened on our campus. As I said before, I love talking and debating issues in spirituality and religion with people, and you might think that I’d be just the person to attend Kirk’s talk. Unfortunately, this event is not a chance for open discussion; it’s only dressed as one. This is not a chance to “agree” or “disagree,” it’s a chance to attend a sermon hosted by a tremendously talented quarterback (with a fantastic beard).

Cousins, not only do you have the right to believe what you do and to say it, but I’m delighted that you’re so open about your relationship with your God. Up until a week ago, I thought you were a prime example of how someone’s faith can temper their character. But this “Do you agree?” campaign has done nothing but hurt your integrity. The cryptic nature of the fliers was designed to trick people like myself into attending without giving us the opportunity to share our own ideas. Please, have your talk, promote Jesus, and celebrate your faith, but don’t pretend there’s any room for debate or discussion when you address your peers. This is an event for Christians and for people who want to be preached at, nothing more.

Now it’s your turn, Kirk. Do you agree with me?

Alexandra David, fisheries and wildlife senior