Personal Development

Eye for An Eye? The Power of Forgiveness

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We’ve all heard the saying, “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.” While it might sound like a catchy slogan for anti-revenge campaigns, there’s a profound message stitched into these simple words. In an age where retaliation is often glorified, this article explores the transformative power of forgiveness, and why letting go might be the most visionary thing you can do.

A World of Closed Eyes

Picture this: You’re walking down a metaphorical street where everyone’s running around poking each other’s eyes out. Not exactly a fun block party, is it? But that’s exactly what we’re attending every time we engage in a circle of vengeance. Revenge may offer the illusion of justice, but it’s often just a Ponzi scheme of pain, with everyone losing in the end.

The Myth of “Closure”

Many people believe revenge will bring them peace, or at least, closure. In reality, retribution often only satisfies us momentarily, like a sugar rush that leaves us crashing later. Forgiveness, on the other hand, is the balanced meal of the soul—nutritious and long-lasting.

The Science of Letting Go

Studies show that forgiveness is not just good for the soul, but it’s beneficial for the body as well. Research from the Mayo Clinic suggests that letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for compassion, kindness, and peace. Forgiveness can lead to lower stress levels, lower blood pressure, and a stronger immune system. In a way, forgiveness is like a health supplement for your emotional and physical well-being.

The Prisoner’s Dilemma

Holding a grudge is like swallowing a poison pill and expecting the other person to die. The only person you’re hurting is yourself. Being unable to forgive is akin to being held prisoner in your own mind, and it’s a cell with very high rent.

The Gandhian Perspective

Mahatma Gandhi, who is believed to have popularized the notion of “an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind,” also led a nonviolent movement that eventually ousted the British from India. Had he adhered to a philosophy of revenge, history might have looked very different. By adopting a policy of forgiveness and nonviolence, Gandhi not only freed a nation but also demonstrated the transformative power of letting go.

The Daily Practice of Forgiveness

Forgiveness isn’t a one-time event but a daily practice. And no, it’s not just about forgiving others; it’s also about forgiving yourself. Holding onto guilt is the emotional equivalent of holding onto a hot coal. Unless you want permanent scars, it’s best to let it go.

Yes, there will be times when an “eye for an eye” seems justified. It’s the primal instinct that shouts for retribution and revenge. But remember, the cycle of revenge has no GPS, and you’ll just keep going around in circles until you choose a different path. As someone wise once said, “The first to apologize is the bravest, the first to forgive is the strongest, and the first to forget is the happiest.” So, why not choose to see the bigger picture instead of becoming part of a world that’s blind?

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The Definition of Hell: Meeting Your Potential

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The great motivators of our time have all spoken about the power of potential. They’ve emphasized that within each of us lies a dormant force so compelling that, if tapped, it could lead us to achievements beyond our wildest dreams. But what if there was an alternative perspective, one where the concept of ‘potential’ takes on a more ominous tone? What if, as the statement goes, the definition of hell is dying and meeting the person you could have become?

Let’s pause here and consider the weight of that thought. I know, it sounds like the plot of a Twilight Zone episode that Rod Serling forgot to write. But stick with me.


The Heavenly Hellfire of Regret

Hell isn’t just a concept of fire and brimstone; it’s the agony of unrealized potential. It’s the pain of looking back on your life and recognizing the moments you shied away from risk, the times you chose comfort over challenge, or the instances you let fear dictate your decisions. If this isn’t a wake-up call wrapped in a fire alarm at 3 a.m., I don’t know what is.

The idea isn’t to scare you into action but to ignite a fire that makes you question the trajectory of your current path. It’s a bit like having a guardian devil instead of a guardian angel, whispering not-so-sweet nothings like, “Hey, are you sure you want to binge another Netflix series when you could be learning the guitar?” or “How about swapping that doughnut for a dumbbell?”

The Tale of Two You’s

Imagine meeting this person you could have become. They speak several languages, wrote that book you always said you would, started a charity, and basically lived your dream life. Meeting them isn’t about jealousy; it’s about realization. Realization that the same 24 hours were available to both versions of you. One chose to make them count, the other didn’t.

Making Heaven Out of Hell

So, how can we transform this notion of hell into a slice of heavenly motivation? The first step is taking an inventory of your life. Where are you now? Where could you be? Then work on closing that gap one day at a time. Every day is a new opportunity to diverge from a path leading to regret.

The Antidote to Regret: Action

The beauty of this concept is that it urges you into action. It fosters a sense of urgency that can be your greatest ally. Unlike the procrastination demon who whispers, “There’s always tomorrow,” this guardian devil screams, “What if there is no tomorrow?”

Humor Me: The Ultimate Choice

In the grand comedy that is life, we’re all stumbling and improvising our way through scenes, hoping for a few laughs and maybe a standing ovation at the end. But what if the real choice is between being a lead actor or an understudy in your own life story?

Imagine a curtain call in the theater of life where you’re greeted not just by applause, but by the person you could have become. Would they be giving you a standing ovation or a facepalm? The answer to that question, my friends, is the difference between a life well-lived and one mired in ‘what-ifs’.

So let’s make a pact, shall we? A pact to strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield until we’re either living our potential or darn close to it. That way, when the time comes for that all-important meeting, it won’t be a journey to hell but rather a heavenly affirmation that we squeezed every last drop out of this thing called life.

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Theodore Roosevelt: The Man in the Arena

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In the annals of history, few speeches have had the staying power to inspire generations long after they were first delivered. One such oration is Theodore Roosevelt’s Sorbonne speech, also commonly known as “Citizenship in a Republic,” delivered on April 23, 1910. More than just a historical artifact, this speech is a masterclass in the art of motivational rhetoric, a stirring call to action for anyone who believes in taking an active role in their community and nation.

Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, didn’t merely stand at the podium and deliver words; he stood as an embodiment of the ideals he proclaimed. Delivered in the hallowed halls of the Sorbonne in Paris, France, the speech was a bold testament to the philosophy that Roosevelt had lived by, a credo emphasizing the importance of courage, character, and citizenship. Its message resonates as deeply today as it did over a century ago, serving as a timeless reminder that in the “arena” of life, the credit belongs to those who are willing to throw their hats in the ring, face failure, and strive valiantly.

In a world frequently beset by armchair critics and keyboard warriors, Roosevelt’s words ring truer than ever: It’s not the critic who counts, but the one in the arena “whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood.” The speech is a clarion call, urging each of us to embrace our own arenas—whether they be in politics, business, art, or any other endeavor—while living out the virtues of hard work, perseverance, and, above all, daring greatly.

So, let’s venture back in time to that fateful day in Paris, and immerse ourselves in the wisdom of one of America’s most iconic leaders. Because, after all, who better to guide us through the arena of life than the Rough Rider himself, Theodore Roosevelt?

It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.

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Vince Lombardi: What It Takes to Be Number One

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Let’s shine the spotlight on a man who made grit, determination, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence as American as apple pie. The epitome of tenacity, a titan in the world of football, and the man who practically redefined what it meant to be a coach – the one, the only, Vince Lombardi.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1913, Lombardi began his journey in the world of sports not on the field but in the clergy, intending to become a Catholic priest. But, as destiny would have it, his love for the gridiron prevailed, and the world of football was forever changed.

Lombardi’s coaching style was akin to a symphony conductor with a relentless tempo, and his football field was the grand stage where he orchestrated some of the most memorable performances in the history of the sport. As head coach of the Green Bay Packers, he transformed a losing team into consecutive NFL championship winners, setting a gold standard of excellence that remains a benchmark in the sport to this day.

But Lombardi was more than just an extraordinary coach. He was a molder of character, an inspirer of men, a man who believed that football, like life, demanded nothing less than total commitment. His words, “Winning isn’t everything; it’s the only thing” are not just about sports, they encapsulate his approach to life itself.

Let’s take a look at one of his most famous quotations below. A speech whose meaning extends far beyond the football field and into the very heart of what it means to strive, to persist, and to be successful at life.

What It Takes to be Number One
Vince Lombardi

Winning is not a sometime thing; it’s an all the time thing. You don’t win once in a while; you don’t do things right once in a while; you do them right all of the time. Winning is a habit. Unfortunately, so is losing.

There is no room for second place. There is only one place in my game, and that’s first place. I have finished second twice in my time at Green Bay, and I don’t ever want to finish second again. There is a second place bowl game, but it is a game for losers played by losers. It is and always has been an American zeal to be first in anything we do, and to win, and to win, and to win.

Every time a football player goes to ply his trade he’s got to play from the ground up – from the soles of his feet right up to his head. Every inch of him has to play. Some guys play with their heads. That’s O.K. You’ve got to be smart to be number one in any business. But more importantly, you’ve got to play with your heart, with every fiber of your body. If you’re lucky enough to find a guy with a lot of head and a lot of heart, he’s never going to come off the field second.

Running a football team is no different than running any other kind of organization – an army, a political party or a business. The principles are the same. The object is to win – to beat the other guy. Maybe that sounds hard or cruel. I don’t think it is.

It is a reality of life that men are competitive and the most competitive games draw the most competitive men. That’s why they are there – to compete. The object is to win fairly, squarely, by the rules – but to win.

And in truth, I’ve never known a man worth his salt who in the long run, deep down in his heart, didn’t appreciate the grind, the discipline. There is something in good men that really yearns for discipline and the harsh reality of head to head combat.

I don’t say these things because I believe in the ‘brute’ nature of men or that men must be brutalized to be combative. I believe in God, and I believe in human decency. But I firmly believe that any man’s finest hour — his greatest fulfillment to all he holds dear — is that moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle – victorious.

Great Coaches and More Great Advice Below

Flirting with Failure: Let’s Tango with the Unsung Hero of Success

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Once upon a time in a world obsessed with success, I committed an unthinkable act – I failed! I slipped on the banana peel of life and fell flat on my face. It wasn’t pretty, and I can still hear the metaphorical canned laughter echoing in the background. But guess what? It was the best thing that ever happened to me.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Best thing? Is this guy for real?” Let me tell you, I’m as real as the shiner you get from walking into a door. And equally illuminating. Here’s why failing is the secret sauce to success and why it’s time we start seeing failure as a mentor dressed in wolf’s clothing.

First off, failure is an excellent teacher – albeit a slightly sadistic one. It’s like that strict math teacher who never let you use a calculator. It was tough, and fractions were the bane of your existence, but when you finally got the hang of it, it felt like a eureka moment. Failure makes success taste sweeter, kind of like how you appreciate warm sunny days after a cold winter.

Moreover, failure is the universe’s way of saying, “Wrong way, Einstein.” It’s like a cosmic GPS that redirects you when you’re heading down a dead-end. So, you didn’t land your dream job? Perhaps it’s the world nudging you towards your real passion – interpretive dance or competitive cheese rolling. Who knows? The world works in mysterious ways.

Let’s not forget that some of the most successful people in history were well-acquainted with failure. Take Thomas Edison, for instance. He failed a thousand times before he invented the light bulb. And when asked about his failures, he brilliantly quipped, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Now, there’s a guy who knew how to two-step with failure!

On a less historical note, consider this: every time you fall flat on your face, you’re one step closer to tripping over success. Or as I like to say, “I’m not clumsy; I’m unexpectedly gravity-friendly. And each time gravity and I become pals, I get back up stronger.”

So, the next time you stumble, take a moment to high-five failure. Thank it for the lessons, the redirection, and the humility it brings. Remember, a diamond is just a piece of coal that handled stress exceptionally well, and so are you. Don’t be afraid to flirt with failure, because when you dance with disaster, you’re just a twirl away from triumph.

Failure isn’t the monster under your bed; it’s the fairy godmother of success in a slightly scary mask. So embrace it, learn from it, and most importantly, laugh with it. After all, failure might just be the best thing that ever happens to you.

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INSPIRATION: An Acronym for Success

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I – Intention: Set clear goals and intentions for what you want to achieve.
N – Nurture: Nurture your skills and passions, allowing them to grow and evolve.
S – Strength: Lean on your inner strength during challenging times.
P – Perseverance: Keep going, even when things get tough.
I – Innovation: Always be open to new ideas and ways of doing things.
R – Resilience: Learn to bounce back from setbacks and difficulties.
A – Attitude: Maintain a positive and optimistic outlook.
T – Tenacity: Show determination and grit in the face of obstacles.
I – Inspiration: Seek inspiration from others and aim to inspire those around you.
O – Opportunity: Be ready to seize opportunities when they present themselves.
N – Nourish: Nourish your mind and body to stay healthy and focused.

So, every time you think of INSPIRATION, remember these guiding principles to help keep you motivated and on track towards your goals.

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The Power of Visualization: Lessons from Dr. Blaslotto’s Experiment

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If I asked you to close your eyes and imagine biting into a juicy lemon, you’d probably wince as your mind conjures the tart flavor, right? That’s the power of visualization – the mind’s ability to simulate real experiences without physically going through them. This mental tool isn’t just handy for culinary thought experiments. In fact, as evidenced by Dr. Blaslotto’s work at the University of Chicago, visualization is a crucial component for achieving peak performance in any area of life.

The Blaslotto Experiment:

Dr. Blaslotto and his team conducted an experiment where participants were divided into three groups. The task was simple – shooting basketball free throws. Group A practiced shooting every day for an hour. Group B only visualized themselves making free throws but never practiced physically. Group C did nothing related to basketball.

After 30 days, the results were astonishing! Group A, which practiced physically, improved by 24%. Group C, which did nothing, did not improve (no surprise). However, Group B, which only visualized successful shots, improved by an astounding 23%, almost as much as the group that physically practiced!

Mind Over Matter:

The question is, how did visualization alone lead to such a significant improvement in performance? The answer lies in our brains. When we visualize an action, our brains generate an impulse that tells our neurons to “perform” the movement. This creates a new neural pathway that is imprinted into our mind, almost as if we had physically performed the action. Over time, this mental rehearsal primes our body for action and enhances our ability to execute the task in real life.

Applying Visualization in Life:

Let’s move away from the basketball court and into our daily lives. Whether you’re preparing for a big presentation, gearing up for an important interview, or planning to run a marathon, visualization can be a game-changer.

Imagine yourself performing the task with precision and confidence. Visualize success – the applause after your presentation, the nod of approval from your interviewer, the rush of crossing the finish line. The more vividly you can imagine these scenarios, the more your brain becomes familiar with them, and the more likely you are to turn them into reality.

A Word of Caution:

While visualization is powerful, it doesn’t replace actual practice or preparation! Read our article on practice perfect makes perfect! It’s a supplement, not a substitute. You can’t visualize yourself becoming a world-class surgeon without attending medical school, or manifest a bestselling novel without actually writing it. Visualization and actual practice should go hand in hand. Think of them as the dynamic duo of personal development, like Batman and Robin, but without the cool gadgets and fancy costumes.

Basketball that Looks Like a Brain

The mind is a powerful tool. It can be your greatest ally in achieving peak performance in any area of your life. As Dr. Blaslotto’s experiment demonstrated, the practice of visualization can significantly enhance your performance and bring you closer to your goals. So, close your eyes and envision your success. Your brain might just be tricked into making it a reality.

Get After It!

One Tiny Branch at a Time: Life Lessons from Bonsai Trees

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Bonsai trees, the tiny little wonders of the horticultural world, have intrigued us for centuries. These small-scale trees are a living testament to the power of patience, diligence, and care. Sure, they might not be able to give you shade on a hot summer day, but they can teach us a thing or two about succeeding in life. In this article, we’ll explore life lessons from the art of bonsai tree cultivation that’ll have you laughing and nodding in agreement.

Lesson 1: Patience, Grasshopper

Growing a bonsai tree is a bit like watching paint dry, but in slow motion. It takes years of tender care and attention to detail to create a beautiful Bonsai. In today’s fast-paced world, patience isn’t always our strong suit. But remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a bonsai tree. When it comes to achieving success, slow and steady often wins the race, so channel your inner tortoise and embrace the power of patience.

Lesson 2: Balance – It’s Not Just for Tightrope Walkers

Bonsai trees represent the perfect harmony between tree, soil, water, and their environment. If we could all strike that kind of balance, we’d be doing yoga on a mountaintop right now. While that might not be your cup of tea, finding equilibrium in your work and personal life, mental and physical well-being, and ambition and contentment is essential for success. Channel your inner bonsai tree, and you’ll be well on your way to living a balanced life.

Lesson 3: Bend, Don’t Break

Ever notice how bonsai trees seem to weather storms and face the elements with unwavering grace? In life, we’re bound to face our fair share of storms too. Instead of snapping like a twig, take a leaf out of the bonsai playbook and learn to adapt and persevere. You’ll come out stronger and more resilient on the other side.

Lesson 4: Be a Detail Ninja

Caring for a bonsai tree is no joke. You need to have the precision of a brain surgeon and the focus of a world-class athlete. One wrong snip, and your bonsai masterpiece could turn into a Charlie Brown Christmas tree. Attention to detail can make or break your success in life too. So channel your inner bonsai sensei and strive for excellence in everything you do – just don’t go wielding pruning shears at the office.

Lesson 5: Life’s a Journey, Enjoy the (Tiny) Scenery

Bonsai trees aren’t a “set it and forget it” type of deal. They’re living, growing, and changing works of art that’ll keep you on your toes for years to come. Much like these miniature marvels, our personal and professional growth never really stops. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. After all, life’s too short not to appreciate the little things – even if they’re as small as a bonsai tree.

Who knew that bonsai trees could be so full of wisdom? By learning from their patience, balance, resilience, attention to detail, and the art of enjoying the journey, we can all cultivate our own path to success. So next time you’re feeling a little lost, just remember – there’s a bonsai tree out there that’s got it all figured out.

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Become the Leading Protagonist of Your Own Life

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We often find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of life, playing the role of a bystander, observing other’s lives with curiosity and admiration. But what if we told you that you don’t have to be a journalist recording someone else’s life? Instead, you can take the reins and become the protagonist of your own unique, incredible story. In this article, we’ll explore how to step out of the shadows and embrace the leading role in your own life.!

Discover Your Passions and Pursue Them

One of the critical elements of embracing your own life story is recognizing your passions and dedicating yourself to them. What makes your heart race? What gives you a sense of purpose and fulfillment? Identify these forces, and don’t be afraid to chase after them. The more you pursue your passions, the more you’ll feel like the star of your own show.

Set Personal Goals and Work Towards Them

A well-crafted narrative needs direction and purpose, which is where setting personal goals comes into play. Establish both short-term and long-term goals for yourself and create a detailed roadmap for how to achieve them. Goals should be a reflection of your own desires and aspirations, not someone else’s expectations!

Cultivate Your Unique Voice and Perspective

Every great protagonist has a unique voice that sets them apart. Embrace your individuality and let it shine through in all aspects of your life. Whether it’s your personal style, your hobbies, or your opinions, own your uniqueness and let it guide you. This will not only make your life more interesting but also give you a sense of ownership over your story. Need some inspiration, read our article on Francis Bourgeois.

Build Meaningful Relationships

No protagonist’s journey is complete without a cast of supporting characters. Surround yourself with people who uplift, inspire, and challenge you to be the best version of yourself. These relationships will enrich your life and provide you with valuable connections and experiences, making your story all the more vibrant and engaging.

Take Risks and Embrace Growth

A compelling narrative is one filled with twists, turns, and unexpected challenges. Don’t shy away from taking risks or venturing outside your comfort zone. Embrace the inevitable ups and downs, and view each obstacle as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. This mindset will transform your life into an exciting adventure, with you at the helm.

Remember, you are not a journalist recording someone else’s life – you are the protagonist of your own extraordinary story. So, carpe diem, and make every chapter of your life a captivating tale worth telling!

Live Your Best Life!

All Aboard: How Francis Bourgeois’ Passion for Trains Inspires Us to Embrace Life’s Simple Pleasures

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In a world of constant distraction and the relentless pursuit of “more,” it’s easy to overlook the simple joys that life has to offer. Enter Francis Bourgeois, a young man whose profound passion for trains reminds us of the beauty of simplicity and the power of childlike wonder. Through his Instagram account, Francis records videos of himself waiting for specific train models, delighting in their arrival with unbridled enthusiasm. So, fasten your seatbelts and hop aboard as we explore the motivational lessons we can learn from Francis’s love of trains!

The Power of Presence

Francis’s excitement as he awaits the arrival of a train serves as a reminder of the importance of being present in the moment. In an age where our attention is constantly pulled in every direction, it’s refreshing to see someone so fully absorbed in the anticipation of a single event. As you go about your day, try to channel your inner Francis – be fully present and engaged, whether you’re waiting for your morning coffee or a long-overdue promotion.

Finding Joy in the Journey

As any train enthusiast will tell you, it’s not just about the destination – it’s about the journey. Francis’s excitement lies not only in the arrival of the train but in the anticipation and the experience of watching it pass by. Embrace this mindset by focusing on the process and the small victories along the way, rather than fixating solely on the end goal. Remember, life is like a train ride – it’s important to enjoy the scenery and make the most of every stop.

Chugging Along with Childlike Wonder

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about Francis’s childlike enthusiasm for trains. His pure joy and wonder serve as a reminder that, sometimes, we need to view the world through a child’s eyes. Embrace your inner child by allowing yourself to be captivated by the simple pleasures in life – whether it’s watching a sunset, listening to the rain, or marveling at the mechanics of a steam engine.

The Track to Authenticity

In a world of curated social media feeds and polished personas, Francis’s genuine love for trains is a breath of fresh air. His authenticity is a testament to the power of embracing our true selves and unabashedly pursuing our passions. So, the next time you find yourself questioning whether your interests are “cool” or “acceptable,” remember Francis and let your authenticity shine through.

Conducting a Life of Passion

Finally, Francis’s dedication to his train-watching hobby is a reminder of the importance of pursuing our passions. Whether your interest lies in trains, painting, or underwater basket weaving, it’s essential to make time for the things that bring you joy and fulfillment. As the saying goes, “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” Or, in Francis’s case, “Find a train you love watching, and you’ll never be bored again.”

Francis Bourgeois’s love for trains serves as a powerful reminder to appreciate life’s simple pleasures, embrace our authentic selves, and find joy in the journey. So, let’s take a cue from Francis, and get on board the Joy Train – because, after all, life is too short not to revel in the magic of everyday moments.

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