Vocabulary
What term is used to describe a conflict between groups within the same country?
civil war
Where does the speaker come from?
Lebanon
Why did the speaker start the marathon after a personal tragedy?
To provide an objective to look forward to and bring positivity.
What does BMA stand for?
Beirut Marathon Association
According to the speaker, what does peace-making resemble more: a sprint or a marathon?
A marathon
Provide a synonym for the word "unstable."
unsteady
What annual event in Lebanon brings people together despite the country's divisions?
The marathon
How many runners participated in the marathon in October 2003, and from how many nationalities?
Over 6,000 runners from 49 different nationalities.
What role has BMA played in reshaping Lebanon, according to the speaker?
BMA has supported charities, broken stereotypes, and created change-makers and future leaders.
After ten years in Lebanon, what does the speaker observe about people's motivation for running?
People want to run for a better future.
How would you define the word "fateful" in the context of a decision or event?
Having significant consequences or importance.
Why does the speaker consider the term "civil war" inappropriate for describing Lebanon's conflict?
The war lacked civility, and the country remained divided.
What was the turning point for the marathon in 2005 and its significance?
The assassination of the prime minister led to a United We Run campaign with over 60,000 participants, emphasizing peace and unity.
How has BMA become a platform for hope and cooperation in the region?
It has gained respect, attracted government officials, and supported the creation of similar events in other countries.
How does the speaker connect running with building blocks for future peace?
BMA's impact, breaking stereotypes, and creating change-makers contribute to building blocks for future peace.
Provide the synonymous word or word expressions of informal style to the term "vulnerable to".
Soft target for or open season for
Explain how the marathon serves as a unifying force in Lebanon.
It brings people from different backgrounds together for a common cause, promoting unity.
In what ways did the marathon find solutions to bring people together during political problems?
Negotiating alternative routes, turning government protesters into cheerleaders, and hosting juice stations.
What was the impact of the first annual all-women-and-girls race for empowerment?
It involved 4,512 women, including the first lady, marking a significant step towards gender empowerment.
What challenges has Lebanon faced between 2006 and 2009, and how did the marathon contribute during this period?
The country faced unstable years, invasions, and assassinations; the marathon provided a unifying force.
Explain the meaning of the word "contagious" and provide an example of a situation where this term might be used.
Easily transmissible, as in the case of emotions or diseases. Example: Laughter is contagious; when one person starts laughing, it spreads to others.
How did the speaker introduce the concept of running in Lebanon, considering the country's history?
By starting from scratch and addressing the challenges of introducing running in a nation on the brink of war.
How has the marathon evolved over the years and its impact on the region?
It has expanded, included diverse participants, supported various causes, and become a respected event in the Middle East.
What broader implications does the speaker attribute to BMA's influence in the region?
BMA is considered a platform for hope, cooperation, and a catalyst for change in a fragile and unstable part of the world.
Summarize the overall message the speaker conveys regarding the power of running and the marathon's impact on Lebanon.
Running, symbolized by the marathon, has the potential to bring diverse people together, overcome political problems, and contribute to lasting peace.