Talking Tips For A Controversial Super Bowl Commercial

Ah, the Super Bowl commercials. For several years now many consider them part of the entertainment of the Super Bowl game. Which ad is your favorite? I can still recall trying to memorize the McDonald’s jingle for the Big Mac.

“Two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, on a sesame-seed bun.”

For Super Bowl 2010 change is on the way. This year CBS will broadcast an advocacy ad during the Super Bowl that is drawing controversy even before its television debut.

Sponsored by Focus on the Family, “Celebrate Family, Celebrate Life” will feature football player Tim Tebow and his mother telling the story of her decision not to end her difficult pregnancy that resulted in the birth of her Heisman Trophy winner son Tim Tebow.

For thirty seconds there will be a change in tradition, this time to show a controversial advocacy ad during the Super Bowl.

For the Super Bowl party guest, below are some tips for civil conversation during the thirty second commercial.

-    First, decide whether you want to engage in a conversation or not. Since the topic is controversial, ask yourself if this is the best time and place to start a discussion. If not, maybe after the Super Bowl game or the following day would be better.

-   Second, some people are very passionate about their viewpoints. If you engage in a conversation be respectful of other’s opinions and exclude personal attacks. If the topic gets heated, you can always excuse yourself from the conversation or change the subject.

-   Third, it is also quite acceptable to say, “I am not quite comfortable discussing this topic at the party.” Most party goers will respect your feelings and move on.   

Finally, keep in mind you’re an invited guest at a party. As a guest your primary responsibility is alertness to how your behavior respects the host and the other guests at the party. The last thing your host wants his/her guests to remember about the party is a verbal scuffle.

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