The Debate - I Couldn't Sink Low Enough In My Seat!

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The Convention Center was elaborately decorated and befitting of the evening's event, a presidential debate.  I took my seat feeling all the excitement that was in the room waiting for the candidates to take center stage.  I caught glimpses of many Republican friends in the room as well as a number of familiar South Carolina lawmakers.  Although not a Fox News supporter or viewer, I saw the familiar faces of the Fox family and watched intently as they prepared for the evening's debate.  Everything was ready.  I was ready.  All we needed was the field of candidates.

Sure enough, they all were introduced and warmly welcomed to Myrtle Beach.  I was proud to be part of what I considered to be a historic night for my community.  Five candidates vying for their party's nomination for the President of the United States.  Pretty awesome.  The questioning out of gate was right after Mitt Romney.  No hesitation, just let's get at it.  I was impressed with Bret Baier, his questioning and moderating.  He performed admirably. 

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I knew I would have a hard time listening to the anti-Obama inflammatory rhetoric that would certainly highlight the evening's debate.  I was prepared for that.  I even expected my blood to boil every once in a while when one of the candidates would say something about our President that would turn my stomach.  That did happen on more than one occasion for sure.  However, for me it wasn't about their criticism of the President or even the Democrats that turned me off.  Quite simply, it was the rude and belligerent behavior of so many who were in attendance.

Maybe my expectation was too lofty.  Maybe I expected a more subdued experience.  Maybe I expected that each of the candidate's views would be listened to in a respectful fashion.  I listened in a respectful fashion.  I sat calmly in my seat and did not chastise any candidate's words.  I certainly didn't agree with much of what I heard but still chose to be respectful of the men who seek their party's nomination.  I also must admit that I respect each of these men for their service to this nation as well as their willingness to continue in service to our nation. 

However, I also must admit that I was embarrassed to be seated near a group of people who were disrespectful not only to the debate forum but to the candidates themselves.  Who boos or cat-caws at a Presidential Debate?  Who raised these disrespectful people?  All I could think of doing was sinking down in my chair in hopes that no one even noticed my presence.  How disappointing it was. 

My expectations were high.  I enjoyed the debate questions.  Didn't care for all of the answers but I listened and felt I learned something new of each candidate and their interest in serving as our Commander and Chief.  I feel sorry for those who must have been offended by someone else's beliefs or political views that they felt it necessary to demonstrate their disapproval by booing.  I walked out of the convention center Monday night thanking God that my mother and father raised me in such a fashion that I am respectful of other people's views and do not see it necessary or fit to admonish them with booing.

I would certainly think twice before holding another Presidential Debate in the sunny city of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.  Unfortunately, I have a feeling that our nation is so polarized politically and religiously that we will see more and more of this boorish behavior in the year to come.  I'm proud to be an American, just a little disappointed in my fellow Americans who chose to be disrespectful.