Our school is widely known for its mascot commonly identified by the name “Johnny The Footballer.” Johnny is a symbol of the University, especially in soccer events where our institution has to participate. The ideas of having the mascot came in 2006 when the University triumphed in the national university games despite receiving less support from fans. The institution’s administration sought a way to enhance awareness about our soccer team and get more support for the team in upcoming soccer events and competitions. The idea came up and in 2007, Johnny appeared in all our soccer competitions where more people identified with it and supported our soccer team to win the 2007 national university games as well. Johnny performs specifically in our school’s soccer events although it also makes appearances during community events where it serves the purpose of spreading word about our school.
Since coming to life in 2006, Johnny has been of cultural significance to our institution. It has since appeared in all soccer competitions and community events in which our school participates. It exemplifies the winning spirit of the university and also expresses the notion that every member of the university is loving and caring. During community events, children and families strive to interact with the mascot that is always receptive, caring, and loving. The identity of Johnny, however, has been kept secret by the university. A reason for this is to keep people guessing and remain interested in unearthing who Johnny really is. Through this more people are attracted to events attended by Johnny. Seemingly, the role of the mascot is exciting, and I would not hesitate to take up the role if given a chance.
Response:
What an interesting name you have for your mascot! By reading the name “Joe Vandal,” I imagine a tall and muscular figure. I agree that a mascot plays a crucial cultural role for institutions. Many people are often attracted to mascots in events, and through this, people come together and tend to love and care for one another. In soccer events, for instance, a mascot incites a team spirit, and this is important for a team’s success in the long run.
Discussion 2: The Most Distant Places
Based on the video, including traditional medical practices in delivering health care to the rural areas of Ecuador is vital since people in the areas relate well to them. It would be difficult to introduce modern medical practices they are unfamiliar with. Besides, traditional medical practices can be used in different environments easier than modern medical practices.
Primarily, being healthy refers to the absence of disease. However, it may also entail a person having the right lifestyle such as regular involvement in physical activity and eating balanced diets. A malnourished person may be free from disease, but he may be far from looking healthy. Moreover, a person may be free from disease but may not be taking part in regular physical activity or exercise. Irregular involvement in exercise would jeopardize one’s health condition.
In the video, the Western-trained doctor argues that traditional practices such as “guinea pig diagnosis” are not based on scientific ideas, and thus, they are often overlooked in most cases when it comes to treatment. What the Western-trained doctor can learn from the traditional healer is confidence and inspiration when providing treatment. The traditional healer’s inspiration and confidence come from the effects of the traditional practices.
Response:
I agree that people in rural areas relate well with traditional medical practices. This may be a reason for the success of traditional medical practices in rural areas. I also support your argument about what being healthy entails. I believe that one can be free from disease but show signs of malnourishment or lack of fitness both of which jeopardize one’s health.