In the heart of the roaring twenties, wrapped within the thrill of the Scotland Vs Ireland Races, was a speech that still echoes after a century, a speech ignited with the hope of eternal values over fleeting glory. An athlete known primarily for his excellence on the running track, Eric Liddel, decided to use this platform to deliver a speech that demonstrated his deep-rooted faith and devotional commitment to Christianity.
Background
Born to Scottish missionaries in China on January 16, 1902, Eric's life was deeply rooted in principles of faith and discipline (Keddie, 2007). He moved to Scotland to complete his studies, following which he pursued his passion in athletics and soon gained fame as 'The Flying Scotsman' (McMillan, 2012).
The Event
In 1925, at the highly anticipated Scotland Vs Ireland Races, a 23-year-old Liddel decided to speak about his faith. For someone in the zenith of his athletic career, it was risky to steer from the expected script of athletic triumphs. However, Liddell was not one to shy away from showcasing his unwavering faith in Christ (Pollock, 1971).
The Speech
As Liddell stood before the captivated audience, he began, not with boasts of athletic prowess, but with words of humility and grace. Speaking with a passion that was palpable, Liddell spoke about the importance of being rooted in faith and serving God with unwavering commitment.
In his speech, he stated, "In the dust of defeat as well as the laurels of victory there is glory to be found if one has done his best… For each one of us, there is a race to be run, a goal to be reached, and a victory to be won" (Eric Liddell Centre, 2021). Using the metaphor of the race, Liddell highlighted the Christian's journey through life, emphasizing that one's personal achievements are not as important as living a life pleasing to God (Keddie, 2007).
Impact on English as a Second Language Students
As non-native English learners, this speech forms an excellent resource to study metaphorical language, persuasive language techniques, and cultural references within a historical context. Liddell employed eloquent language, drawing parallels between physical races and spiritual journeys, which provides students the opportunity to examine this usage in English language.
Conclusion
Eric Liddell's life was marked by his submissions to his faith, often defying societal norms and expectations. His speech at the Scotland vs Ireland Races served as a testament to his enduring commitment, showcasing the potency of his eloquence, his faith, and his persuasiveness.
English Language School links are:
t.me/fieldguidesenglishschoolbot
t.me/tennisrelatedenglishbot
