Y.M.C.A. DEBATING CLUB.

Dominion, Volume 6, Issue 1744, 8 May 1913, Page 6

Y.M.C.A. DEBATING CLUB.

The fourth meeting of tlio Y.M.C.A. Literary an<l Debating Club was held 011 Tuesday evening, when Jlr. \\". M. Ponder delivered a iinjier on "Some Conflicting Ideals in Lire." Mr. K. Brown presiued over a good attendance ol' members. The essayist had prepared his paper with a view to promoting discussion, and in this ho was very successful, lie contended that it was better to strive after good than to rail at the ill, and caretully, contrasted pessimistic and optimistic ideals. He dealt with ideals of character, which, he stated, were infinitely religious, and ho instanced Jesus Christ as the best example of ideal character. Ho proceeded to deal with ideals of courage, determination, ambition, and tho epicurean ideal of getting the most enjoyment possible out of life, which, in his opinion, was very prevalent at the present time. The ideal of young people should bo to succeed in business or learnin", and tho great secret of success was work. Tho essayist dealt at length with aocial ideals, and concluded by declaring that the men who stood highest in tlw world were those who had effected some social reform, raised the standard of living, and left the world better than they had found it. . , In tho discussion which followed, 110 fewer than 15 speakers took part. Sonm of the essayist's cortVntions were challenged, but all agreed that tho paper was fin excellent one. A hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Pohdcr for his instructive paper concluded the evening. Next Tuesday evening three short papers, entitled respectively, "LloydGeorge," ".Milton's Unorthodoxics," and "Keal Sttcccis," are to be given by members of the club.