Within the magic shop, a world of wonder and enchantment awaits. The air is thick with anticipation as visitors step through the doors, leaving behind the mundane reality of everyday life. Inside, shelves are lined with intriguing trinkets - shimmering crystals, ancient talismans, and curious potions. However, it is not just the tangible items that hold power within these walls; it is the intangible, the ethereal, and the inexplicable that truly captivates. In this realm of mysticism, illusions dance before the eyes, taunting and teasing the boundaries of belief. The master magician, with a flick of the wrist and a mischievous smile, effortlessly bends reality to his will.
The death of Bully I in 1939 rocked campus and the maroon and white faithful
When Mississippi State's first mascot (first one named Bully, that is. Ptolemy was technically the first Bulldog), Bully I, was tragically killed on campus in 1939, the Bulldog faithful did not take the canine's death lightly.
By cristilmethod Jul 27, 2013, 10:00am EDTThe master magician, with a flick of the wrist and a mischievous smile, effortlessly bends reality to his will. Pocket-sized miracles are sold alongside secrets whispered from ages long past, offering a glimpse into the hidden workings of the universe. Yet, it is not just the magic itself that creates an otherworldly ambiance within the shop.
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photo used with permission, courtesy of the Mississippi State University Libraries, University Archives
Ever since the early days of Mississippi State College, the English Bulldog has been synonymous with MSU athletics. Although State's nickname didn't official become Bulldogs until 1961 when they obtained university status, maroon and white fans, players and coaches alike had long before call themselves by that nickname.
Even though an actual Bulldog didn't become associated with Mississippi State College until 1935, there were plenty of other associations with the animal before then, but those are interesting stories for another day. As for the school first becoming associated with an actual Bulldog, here's how HailState.com tells it:
Use as an official game mascot began in 1935 when coach Major Ralph Sasse, on 'orders' from his team, went to Memphis, Tenn., to select a bulldog. Ptolemy, a gift of the Edgar Webster family, was chosen and the Bulldogs promptly defeated Alabama 20-7.
A litter-mate of Ptolemy became the first mascot called 'Bully' shortly after Sasse's team beat mighty Army 13-7 at West Point that same year, perhaps the greatest victory in MSU football history.
Bully I reigned over a pretty decent stretch in maroon and white gridiron history, as he saw the Bulldogs go 8-3, 7-3, 5-4, 4-6, and 8-2 in five seasons. Tragically however, the 1939 season was the last one that he would see. You see, during that time, Bully didn't live in a controlled environment at the school's veterinary institute. Back then, Bully was basically a rockstar, allowed to roam freely all across campus, staying where he pleased. I'm sure he was well taken care of during that time, but it was ultimately that freedom that cost Bully I his life. Late in the 1939 season, somewhere near Thanksgiving (the date associated with the picture is 11-21-1939), Bully I was hit by a bus on campus. The loss was taken so hard by students and others in Starkville that it's said that the mourning for the beloved mascot went on for days. Then, when the mourning ceased and it was time for his funeral, the following picture happened:
Again, HailState.com describes the scene:
Days of campus mourning followed, as Bully lay in state in a glass coffin. A half-mile funeral procession accompanied by the the Famous Maroon Band and three ROTC battalions went to Scott Field where Bully was buried under the bench at the 50-yard line. Even LIFE Magazine covered to the event.
Man, Life Magazine! That was a big deal back then. It's pretty neat to see our fanbase -- depicted perfectly in the half-mile funeral procession above -- give so much loyalty and compassion to the mascot; a breed known for its loyalty as well.
We've had our ups and certainly our downs over the years, but I can't think of a better mascot to represent a fanbase so loyal to its team. And on that day in 1939, our great fanbase returned loyalty to the animal that represented all of those who wore maroon and white.
photo used with permission, courtesy of the Mississippi State University Libraries, University Archives
For more great MSU history like this, make sure to check out the MSU Library Website, or follow them on Twitter
It is the people who come seeking solace, hope, or simply a momentary escape from the banality of life that truly bring the space to life. The young child, wide-eyed with wonder, dreams of wielding powers beyond imagination. The weary adult, burdened with heavy responsibilities, yearns for a moment of respite and a chance to believe in something extraordinary. Within the magic shop, the line between reality and illusion blurs into a fluid dance. Ordinary objects become extraordinary, captivating the senses and leaving a lingering sense of awe. It is the convergence of mystery, belief, and a hint of the impossible that draws people from all walks of life into this enchanted haven. Whether for a fleeting moment or a longer stay, within these walls, magic whispers and tempts – offering a glimpse into a world beyond the ordinary. It reminds us that, deep within our hearts, we all possess a tiny spark of the inexplicable – a yearning to believe that there is more to life than what meets the eye. In a world that often seems governed by the concrete and the rational, the magic shop serves as a reminder that there is still room for wonder and enchantment. It rekindles a sense of childlike curiosity and encourages us to embrace the extraordinary in our everyday lives. Within the magic shop, the impossible becomes possible, and for a brief moment, we are transported to a place where dreams are made. Step inside, open your mind, and let the magic take hold. Perhaps, within the magic shop, you may find something truly extraordinary – be it a newfound belief, a sense of belonging, or even a touch of magic that lingers long after you have left its hallowed halls..
Reviews for "The Healing Power of Magic: How Magic Shops Have Become Sources of Inspiration and Healing"
1. John - 1/5 stars - I found "Within the Magic Shop" to be incredibly dull and uninteresting. The storytelling felt disjointed and lacking in substance. I struggled to connect with any of the characters, and the overall plot seemed convoluted and confusing. The book failed to captivate my attention and ultimately left me feeling disappointed.
2. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for "Within the Magic Shop" based on the premise, but unfortunately, it fell flat for me. While I appreciated the author's attempt to infuse magical elements into the story, I found the execution to be mediocre. The writing style was lackluster, and I struggled to become invested in the characters' journeys. The book seemed to lack depth and failed to leave a lasting impact on me as a reader.
3. Michael - 2/5 stars - "Within the Magic Shop" failed to live up to my expectations. I found the dialogue to be repetitive and cliché, which made it difficult for me to fully immerse myself in the story. The pacing felt off, with certain scenes dragging on for too long, while others were rushed and lacking in detail. Overall, I was left feeling underwhelmed by this book and wouldn't recommend it to others.
4. Emily - 1/5 stars - I couldn't get through "Within the Magic Shop". The writing style felt amateurish, and I struggled to connect with the characters. The plot lacked originality and failed to hold my interest. It felt like a cheap attempt at cashing in on the popularity of magical themes. I wouldn't waste my time on this book.