Journal Six by Bryan Bryden

Part One: Johnny Tocco is an old-fashioned gym owner that hasn't changed his old-school methods.  Johnny stays true to what he believes is an effective way to train boxers.  Big named boxers came to his gym because they knew they could train hard.  I think it is important to remember that Johnny Tocco has been involved in boxing since he was nine years old.  When reading this story I could not help but think of Mickey from the movie Rocky.  The traditional old fashion trainer that gets upset when women distract his fighters.  I believe that is part of the theme in this profile.  Holding on to the traditional way of training using the “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it” type of attitude.  The writing is best when he talks about being called taco by everyone.  While reading this part I couldn’t help but picture the scenario.  This profile relates heavily to our world today.  It sometimes seems like everyone is always trying to improve something or make the next best thing.  In some cases, there is absolutely nothing wrong with the way it is being done.  I think that we could all learn from Johnny Tocco by finding what we love to do and doing it well.  He has trained many big named fighters because he found something he was good at and left well enough alone.

Part Two: I believe that “Steam Train” Maury Graham was one of the best profiles I read.  The story of his life is something we all want to experience in different ways.  It may not be everyone’s dream to hop on a train.  However, everyone wants to feel that sense of adventure and freedom.  I think that Steam Train got to experience life in a way very few will ever have a chance too.  I think another skill that will follow me is that in order to be eccentric, you have to be comfortable with yourself.  It doesn’t matter what other people think of you or your dreams.  The only person that needs to be made happy is yourself.  Overall, I enjoyed reading about other peoples unique lives.  Some were definitely better than others, but they represent unique characteristics of our own society.  No person is exactly alike and everyone has something quirky they do or like.  Don’t be ashamed of being different.  Show off who you are and be proud of yourself, because we are all holding on to something.