Moderation is the answer to our polarization; extremism is a sign of weakness, not strength
Editor’s Note: The following OpEd piece was originally published in the Dallas Morning News on Sunday, Oct 27. Glenn Rogers, R-Graford, represents District 60 in the Texas House of Representatives, which includes Stephens County. It was reprinted with permission from Glenn Rogers’ office.
By Glenn Rogers
In a world that seems increasingly divided, the idea of moderation often gets lost in the noise of extremes. As a lifelong conservative and a proud Republican, I have found myself reflecting on the value of balance — not just in politics, but in all aspects of life. In politics, in work, in hobbies, in the way we help others, moderation is not a sign of weakness. It is a mark of strength, intelligence, and virtue.
Moderation takes courage. It requires the ability to exercise willpower in moments of temptation, to resist the urge to veer too far in any one direction, and to embrace the common sense needed to weigh all sides of an issue.
This approach is rarely popular in today’s political landscape, where loud voices from the fringes demand attention and make headlines. But it is the moderate path that is often the most thoughtful and enduring.
The Bible reminds us of the importance of moderation, of tempering passion with wisdom. Proverbs 25:16 teaches, “If you find honey, eat just enough — too much of it, and you will vomit.” This verse speaks to more than just indulgence in food; it reminds us that excess, even in things that are good, can become destructive. Whether in our personal lives or in politics, imbalance leads to unintended consequences, while moderation fosters growth, understanding, and sustainability.
In today’s political arena, we need leaders who are willing to stand in the center, committed to listening to all sides, weighing evidence and making decisions based on what’s best for all constituents — not just the few loudest voices.
This is not to say that principles should be compromised. Moderation doesn’t mean abandoning deeply held beliefs. Far from it. Instead, moderation in politics is about applying critical thinking and reason to our decisions, being willing to question the extremes of both the left and the right when necessary.
Moderation reflects a commitment to the common good. It’s easy to become consumed by rigid ideologies or to feel compelled to align with whichever political camp shouts the loudest (or waves around the most money). But in truth, our republic thrives when we have representatives who are capable of navigating complex issues with clarity and compassion, who understand that good governance requires balance and compromise.
Ecclesiastes 7:18 reminds us, “It is good to grasp the one and not let go of the other. Whoever fears God will avoid all extremes.” We must hold fast to our convictions but avoid being pulled into divisive extremes that cloud our judgment.
This principle applies beyond politics. In our personal lives, moderation allows us to find balance in work and leisure, ambition and contentment, generosity and self-care. Just as in government, moderation can be a guidepost for making thoughtful, healthy decisions. Overwork can lead to burnout, while overindulgence in leisure can lead to a lack of purpose. Extremes in any area of life leave us feeling imbalanced, while moderation brings peace of mind and fulfillment.
Moderation also allows us to embrace the diversity of thought and experience that exists in our communities. Extremes often demand purity tests or absolute loyalty to a specific worldview, leaving little room for differences of opinion. But it is precisely in this diversity that we find strength. A society that values moderation is one that values open debate, dialogue, and a willingness to learn from one another. The moderate mind does not rush to judgment but instead seeks to understand the broader picture.
As Republicans, we are called to uphold conservative values, and part of that tradition is the value of personal responsibility. Practicing moderation in all things is a powerful expression of that responsibility. It requires us to exercise self-control, to think critically, and to make decisions that reflect both our principles and the realities of the world we live in. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it.
While radical figures often grab the headlines, I believe it is the moderates — those who are willing to resist the pull of extremes — who will be the ones to achieve incremental positive change, bridge divides and move our nation forward. Moderation is not a middle-of-the-road approach; it is the thoughtful application of reason to complex problems. It is a path of willpower and wisdom.
I urge my fellow Texans, regardless of political affiliation, to embrace moderation. Let us commit to approaching politics, work and personal relationships with balance and measured judgment. As the Apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:5, “Let your moderation be known unto all men.”
Moderation, in all its forms, is a mark of strength, and it is through moderation that we can continue to build and perfect the Texas of which our forefathers dreamt.
Glenn Rogers, R-Graford, represents District 60 in the Texas House of Representatives. His service in the Texas House of Representatives will end in January.