Maybe it's time for a casual "strike" if not complete departure.

[Tyintheron]

Words have meaning, and just like Gurgeh, you struggle with the basics. Maybe the JHS debate organizers (that you are so fond of, as if junior high school level of debate is something an adult should be proud of, but that's what "peaking in high school" gets you I guess) can direct you to some beginner course or something.

Still ploughing on with that big "first holidays home since I started college" energy, I see.