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A Sex Therapist at the Movies: "Babygirl"

'Babygirl' challenges traditional narratives by presenting a powerful woman who secretly desires submission, highlighting evolving views on female sexuality.
#mental-health

The kindness of strangers: I needed a place to take my burnout and my dog, then a woman I'd never met sent me an invitation

A reader offered the author a free stay at her beach cottage to support her during a difficult time.

I was lost in the cesspit of social media. Then Jane Austen showed me the way out

Reading can help mitigate the negative impact of social media on mental health.

I Have Been Lying To My Grown Children For Years. Here's What They Don't Know About My Life.

Living alone at an older age often necessitates deceptive behaviors to manage expectations from family about health and lifestyle choices.

Your Space, Creativity, and You

Creativity thrives in disorder, while orderliness supports social norms and well-being.

Silence put my cancer into focus': how a retreat helped me put my diagnosis into words

Finding stillness and reflection after a chaotic year of cancer treatment is essential for emotional healing.

A new start after 60: I was diagnosed with ADHD and stopped hating myself

Jean Ward found empowerment and acceptance after being diagnosed with severe ADHD at age 71.

The kindness of strangers: I needed a place to take my burnout and my dog, then a woman I'd never met sent me an invitation

A reader offered the author a free stay at her beach cottage to support her during a difficult time.

I was lost in the cesspit of social media. Then Jane Austen showed me the way out

Reading can help mitigate the negative impact of social media on mental health.

I Have Been Lying To My Grown Children For Years. Here's What They Don't Know About My Life.

Living alone at an older age often necessitates deceptive behaviors to manage expectations from family about health and lifestyle choices.

Your Space, Creativity, and You

Creativity thrives in disorder, while orderliness supports social norms and well-being.

Silence put my cancer into focus': how a retreat helped me put my diagnosis into words

Finding stillness and reflection after a chaotic year of cancer treatment is essential for emotional healing.

A new start after 60: I was diagnosed with ADHD and stopped hating myself

Jean Ward found empowerment and acceptance after being diagnosed with severe ADHD at age 71.
moremental-health

The Fall of Egypt and the Rise of Rome by Guy de la Bedoyere (Book Review)

The rise of Rome was intertwined with the Ptolemaic dynasty's decline, resulting in Egypt's eventual fall to Roman dominance.

From gestation' to gentle': across Europe, why do we talk about parenting in English? | Olga Mecking

Becoming a mother can feel as challenging as moving to a new country, as it involves learning new customs, languages, and parenting terminologies.
#grief

Harlan Coben says quite a bit of tragedy' in his 20s made him a better writer

Tragedy in Coben's youth improved his writing ability.

How I've Become My Own Source of Love and Reassurance - Tiny Buddha

The loss of a loved one can profoundly affect one's identity and sense of self.
Unconditional love from family provides deep emotional security and grounding.

The Bright Side by Sumit Paul-Choudhury review harnessing the power of positive thinking

Embracing optimism is essential in navigating life's unpredictability, according to Sumit Paul-Choudhury.

Harlan Coben says quite a bit of tragedy' in his 20s made him a better writer

Tragedy in Coben's youth improved his writing ability.

How I've Become My Own Source of Love and Reassurance - Tiny Buddha

The loss of a loved one can profoundly affect one's identity and sense of self.
Unconditional love from family provides deep emotional security and grounding.

The Bright Side by Sumit Paul-Choudhury review harnessing the power of positive thinking

Embracing optimism is essential in navigating life's unpredictability, according to Sumit Paul-Choudhury.
moregrief
#personal-growth

The Greatest Life Hack of All Time Might Be To Avoid Life Hacks Altogether | HackerNoon

Life hacks often lead to superficial solutions; a focus on systemic questions and meaning-making encourages deeper learning and personal growth.

How Interviewing Jimmy Carter Changed My Life | Entrepreneur

Jimmy Carter exemplified mentorship by treating a naïve journalist with respect and encouragement, fostering potential rather than focusing on immediate shortcomings.

"Prophecy," by Kanak Kapur

Dev's initiation into adult conversations highlights his struggle between tradition and personal identity during a pivotal moment in his life.

The Greatest Life Hack of All Time Might Be To Avoid Life Hacks Altogether | HackerNoon

Life hacks often lead to superficial solutions; a focus on systemic questions and meaning-making encourages deeper learning and personal growth.

How Interviewing Jimmy Carter Changed My Life | Entrepreneur

Jimmy Carter exemplified mentorship by treating a naïve journalist with respect and encouragement, fostering potential rather than focusing on immediate shortcomings.

"Prophecy," by Kanak Kapur

Dev's initiation into adult conversations highlights his struggle between tradition and personal identity during a pivotal moment in his life.
morepersonal-growth

David Lodge, British novelist who satirized campus life, dies at 89

David Lodge, an acclaimed British novelist, passed away at age 89, celebrated for his witty satires of academic life and rich literary references.

How an American magazine helped launch one of Britain's favorite Christmas carols

'In the Bleak Midwinter' evolved from a poem to a beloved carol, illustrating the transformative power of music on poetic works.

Demi Moore's stellar second act: how the star was finally given her due at 62

Demi Moore won her first Golden Globe at 62, highlighting her long-standing struggle for recognition as an actress despite her celebrity.

The Christmas tree is a tradition older than Christmas

Many people endure Christmas tree hassles to participate in an ancient ritual symbolizing life, despite the modern inconveniences involved.

Review A Grave in the Woods by Martin Walker - The Good Life France

Review A Grave in the Woods by Martin Walker: 17th book in the Bruno Chief of Police series, & it's a classic Bruno - food, wine, mystery, Dordogne!

Anita Desai Has Put Down Roots, but Her Work Ranges Widely

Anita Desai's literary journey reflects a blend of diverse cultures and themes, culminating in her latest novella, Rosarita, set in Mexico.

'Catwoman' Jocelyn Wildenstein's final resting place revealed - surgery-happy socialite will be near her parents' remains overseas

Jocelyn Wildenstein will be cremated and her ashes returned to her ranch in Kenya after a private funeral.

If You're Traveling To A Cold Destination, These 39 Essentials Will Help You Stay Cozy And Comfy

Saline nasal gel effectively hydrates and prevents dryness or bleeding in cold weather conditions.
Reusable USB hand warmers are essential for staying warm outdoors in extreme cold.
#masculinity

Yukio Mishima's Death Cult

Yukio Mishima's obsession with beauty and warriorhood culminated in a dramatic suicide, highlighting deep existential themes.
The juxtaposition of Mishima's physical transformation and tragic end raises questions about ideals of masculinity and self-image.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Morteza Khakshoor: Post-Picasso

Khakshoor's artwork deeply explores male archetypes, reflecting on their complexities and historical narratives to connect past behaviors with contemporary human experience.

Yukio Mishima's Death Cult

Yukio Mishima's obsession with beauty and warriorhood culminated in a dramatic suicide, highlighting deep existential themes.
The juxtaposition of Mishima's physical transformation and tragic end raises questions about ideals of masculinity and self-image.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Morteza Khakshoor: Post-Picasso

Khakshoor's artwork deeply explores male archetypes, reflecting on their complexities and historical narratives to connect past behaviors with contemporary human experience.
moremasculinity
from www.theguardian.com
1 day ago

Marilyn Monroe by Eve Arnold review intimate, tender and witty photographs

Marilyn Monroe's complexity as a star captivatingly embodies duality, blending fantasy and raw sexuality, enduring beyond her lifetime.
She transformed photography into a meticulous art form, displaying a unique understanding of her public image.
#family-dynamics

I Inherited a Large Sum of Money at a Young Age. It Made My Whole Family Turn on Me.

Navigating relationships with family members can be difficult when financial disparities and emotional bonds are strained.

Stop Asking Your Teen How Their Day Was

Teens may prefer silence over conversation after a long day, suggesting parents should avoid pressing for details.

Why tell someone I love you' when you could overfeed, ridicule or ignore them?

Love is expressed in multiple unique ways that go beyond traditional frameworks like Chapman's Five Love Languages.

Kanak Kapur on Love and Astrology

Exploring the dynamics of joint families, Dev seeks independence amidst inherited expectations and societal norms.

Or (For Isaac)

The poem explores the complexities of familial relationships, sacrifice, and the burdens of expectation between a father and son.

Help! My Mother-in-Law Accused Me of Serving a Store-Bought Dinner. Then I Threatened to Share Her Little Secret.

Navigating family dynamics can be challenging, especially when faced with passive-aggressive behavior from in-laws.

I Inherited a Large Sum of Money at a Young Age. It Made My Whole Family Turn on Me.

Navigating relationships with family members can be difficult when financial disparities and emotional bonds are strained.

Stop Asking Your Teen How Their Day Was

Teens may prefer silence over conversation after a long day, suggesting parents should avoid pressing for details.

Why tell someone I love you' when you could overfeed, ridicule or ignore them?

Love is expressed in multiple unique ways that go beyond traditional frameworks like Chapman's Five Love Languages.

Kanak Kapur on Love and Astrology

Exploring the dynamics of joint families, Dev seeks independence amidst inherited expectations and societal norms.

Or (For Isaac)

The poem explores the complexities of familial relationships, sacrifice, and the burdens of expectation between a father and son.

Help! My Mother-in-Law Accused Me of Serving a Store-Bought Dinner. Then I Threatened to Share Her Little Secret.

Navigating family dynamics can be challenging, especially when faced with passive-aggressive behavior from in-laws.
morefamily-dynamics
from Scary Mommy
19 hours ago

No I'm Not Ever Going To Give My Kid A Timeout

Practicing 'time-ins' over traditional 'time-outs' supports emotional regulation in children and prevents teaching that feelings are punishable.

When Will We Make January 6 a Day of Commemoration?

The events of January 6, 2021, should be commemorated, not whitewashed, to honor the impact on democracy.
#beauty-products

If Irritating Body Issues Are Ruining Your Vibe, These 53 Solutions Are 100% Worth Trying

The products highlighted provide effective solutions for foot care and eye redness, showcasing popular consumer endorsements for optimal results.

32 Superior Products You'll Try Once And Love So Much That You'll Never Go Back

The beauty stick and foundation provide effortless and lightweight solutions for hydrated skin and a natural makeup appearance.

If Irritating Body Issues Are Ruining Your Vibe, These 53 Solutions Are 100% Worth Trying

The products highlighted provide effective solutions for foot care and eye redness, showcasing popular consumer endorsements for optimal results.

32 Superior Products You'll Try Once And Love So Much That You'll Never Go Back

The beauty stick and foundation provide effortless and lightweight solutions for hydrated skin and a natural makeup appearance.
morebeauty-products

'It surprised me': artist finds inspiration in what AI art gets wrong

The discussion around AI in art often overlooks deeper societal implications, focusing instead on derivative nature and originality.

11 Of The Most Anticipated Books Of 2025, From Memoirs To Romantasy

Zora Neale Hurston's posthumous work reveals her literary legacy through a unique retelling of a historical figure.

My adult kids don't view work the same way that I do - why that's a good thing

The author learned the importance of work from a young age, shaped by their family's immigrant experience.

Gertrude Abercrombie's Autobiographical Surrealism Traverses Dreams and Reality

Gertrude Abercrombie transformed her realistic disdain into surreal art, allowing her dreams to reshape reality through her mystical landscapes and portraits.

David Hockney's Visionary Retrospective at Palm Springs Art Museum Reimagines Perspectives | stupidDOPE

David Hockney demonstrates that at 87, creativity remains uninhibited through an innovative retrospective blending tradition with modern technology.
#literature

Opinion | The Hard Reality American Expats Quickly Learn

Frustration with government often leads to thoughts of expatriation, reflecting deep-rooted American sentiments.
Expatriation combines the desire to leave home with the pursuit of new identity experiences.

A Novel to Help You Slow Down

Kristen V. Brown highlights her cultural favorites, emphasizing the importance of literature that prompts reflection and appreciation amid chaos.

Would you drop Of Mice and Men from the exam syllabus? The answer isn't black and white | Nels Abbey

The removal of Of Mice and Men from the GCSE syllabus raises questions about balancing literary merit with the potential emotional impact of its racist language.

The dark side of William Burroughs, wife killer behind Daniel Craig's Queer

Burroughs' influential literary legacy is overshadowed by the dark reality of his personal life, including the murder of his wife, Joan Vollmer.

Year in Books 2024: Hope hid among the shelves - 48 hills

The surge of high-quality literature released in 2024 indicates an optimistic counterpoint to a challenging year, highlighting the power of storytelling.

What we're reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in December

The concept of pretentiousness is challenged, revealing its classist roots and prompting more precise language for expressing artistic criticism.

Opinion | The Hard Reality American Expats Quickly Learn

Frustration with government often leads to thoughts of expatriation, reflecting deep-rooted American sentiments.
Expatriation combines the desire to leave home with the pursuit of new identity experiences.

A Novel to Help You Slow Down

Kristen V. Brown highlights her cultural favorites, emphasizing the importance of literature that prompts reflection and appreciation amid chaos.

Would you drop Of Mice and Men from the exam syllabus? The answer isn't black and white | Nels Abbey

The removal of Of Mice and Men from the GCSE syllabus raises questions about balancing literary merit with the potential emotional impact of its racist language.

The dark side of William Burroughs, wife killer behind Daniel Craig's Queer

Burroughs' influential literary legacy is overshadowed by the dark reality of his personal life, including the murder of his wife, Joan Vollmer.

Year in Books 2024: Hope hid among the shelves - 48 hills

The surge of high-quality literature released in 2024 indicates an optimistic counterpoint to a challenging year, highlighting the power of storytelling.

What we're reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in December

The concept of pretentiousness is challenged, revealing its classist roots and prompting more precise language for expressing artistic criticism.
moreliterature

The Mystery of a Subway Victim's Downward Spiral

Debrina Kawam's life reflected a dramatic transformation from a joyful young woman to a tragic victim of circumstance, highlighting issues of homelessness.

I laughed, I cried, I reflected on many things': Guardian readers' best films of 2024

Dune II exemplifies a masterful adaptation of literature, enhancing cinematic experience through stunning visuals and storyline.
Sean Baker's film transcends typical narratives, delivering a poignant and humorous portrayal of complex human emotions.
The adaptation of Small Things Like These illustrates the effectiveness of subtle storytelling in filmmaking.

On TikTok, Every Migrant Is Living the American Dream

Andean migrants use social media to glamorize their lives, impacting families back home and influencing others to migrate. Their challenges remain unseen.
#golden-globe-awards

There's Only One Real Winner of the Golden Globes, and He Didn't Even Win an Award

Andrew Garfield's performance at the Golden Globes blurred lines of traditional broadcasting, showcasing a shift towards provocative presentation.

Demi Moore Should Win an Award for Best Speech

Demi Moore's first acting award win reflects her journey to reclaiming her identity as a serious actress after years of doubt.

There's Only One Real Winner of the Golden Globes, and He Didn't Even Win an Award

Andrew Garfield's performance at the Golden Globes blurred lines of traditional broadcasting, showcasing a shift towards provocative presentation.

Demi Moore Should Win an Award for Best Speech

Demi Moore's first acting award win reflects her journey to reclaiming her identity as a serious actress after years of doubt.
moregolden-globe-awards

How Christian nationalism played a role in incorporating the phrase 'so help me God' in the presidential oath of office

The phrase 'so help me God' has become a mythic component of the presidential oath, linked to American national memory and Christian nationalism.

Did a Best-Selling Romantasy Novelist Steal Another Writer's Story?

Romantasy's reliance on standardized tropes complicates copyright infringement claims, as seen in Tracy Wolff's litigation.

When women's needlework becomes an act of subversive protest | Aeon Essays

The article discusses the evolution of women's needlework from Victorian ideals of femininity to modern 'craftivism' as a form of protest.

Life leads us to death

Death can guide us to live fully rather than fearfully.
The fragility of faith in the face of loss is a critical reflection.
Ancient perspectives on the afterlife reveal deep human fears and desires.

Ceramics and Glass Merge in Christina Bothwell's Transformative Sculptures

Christina Bothwell emphasizes the importance of artistic process and collaboration, reflecting on overcoming personal struggles to find joy in creativity.

Tom Johnson, Village Voice Critic of New York's Downtown Avant-Garde, Dead at 85

Tom Johnson's death marks the end of an era in minimalist music, reflecting his influence on both composition and music journalism.

It's easy to call what she did evil': inside Denmark's Oscars entry, about a serial child murderer

Denmark's stress-free life is facilitated by an efficient system for government services, albeit stemming from a dark legacy of serial murders.

Demi Moore's family freaks out over her first acting win in 45-year career at 2025 Golden Globes

Demi Moore won her first Golden Globe Award, receiving overwhelming support from her daughters and family.

L.A.'s most intimate theater experience? You're the only guest at this thrilling show

"Undersigned" prompts introspection on personal desires versus sacrifices in a unique, immersive psychological experience.

Fairy porn': is this booming erotica genre an insult to Wales?

Fairy porn novels are gaining popularity, often misrepresenting Welsh mythology and culture, leading to accusations of cultural appropriation.

Book Review: Golden Years,' by James Chappel

The evolution of societal perceptions of old age in America is intricately tied to the introduction of Social Security.

Credit Cards Are Very American. Here's What I Realized When I Couldn't Use Mine for a Year.

Experiencing monthly pay in France provided unexpected benefits in financial management, transforming initial worries into improved budgeting control.

A Gallery of Children of the Ancient World

Children in the ancient world were often viewed as extensions of adults rather than as individuals worthy of representation.

Tractors head towards Paris in protest against the EU-Mercosur deal

Farmers' unions in France are demanding protections for small farmers amid concerns over the EU-Mercosur trade deal impacting rural livelihoods.

The trill of the chase: recording birdsong in Ireland's disappearing wilderness

The author combines a passion for nature with creative storytelling to make wildlife stories accessible and resonate with a wider audience.

Ex-director of Wharton MBA admissions says too many people mess up when answering a common interview question

Candidates should structure their response to 'Tell me about yourself' to avoid rambling and losing engagement.
Encourage interaction by asking interviewers to specify which area they'd like to discuss first.

8 Cookbooks We Loved in January

Curated cookbooks offer both practical recipes and inspiration for creativity in the kitchen.

Why Is the Right Obsessed With Epic Poetry?

Elon Musk's reflections on epic poetry illustrate its ongoing influence in shaping narratives surrounding empires and political ideologies.

David Altmejd Explores Transformation and Mythology in Belgium Exhibition | stupidDOPE

David Altmejd's exhibition explores the synergy between sculpture and drawing, delving deep into themes of mythology and nature's interconnectedness.

Singapore Art Week 2025 returns for its 13th edition with a feast for the senses

Singapore Art Week 2025 will feature over 130 events, promoting creativity, collaboration, and community in visual arts from January 17 to 26.

Gabby Bernstein Reveals The Stress-Busting Midday Ritual She'll Never Skip

Gabby Bernstein emphasizes the importance of letting go of limiting beliefs and taking actionable steps to manifest dreams, as showcased in her morning routine.
#art-exhibition

Juxtapoz Magazine - Reggie Burrows Hodges "Authorities of Reason" @ Karma Los Angeles

Reggie Burrows Hodges' exhibition explores the connections between historical violence and contemporary life through nuanced paintings inspired by his European travels.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Sabrina Bockler Sails Us Into "Shallow Water"

Bockler's work challenges traditional portrayals of femininity, celebrating autonomy and the complexities of boundaries through mythological and contemporary lenses.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Reggie Burrows Hodges "Authorities of Reason" @ Karma Los Angeles

Reggie Burrows Hodges' exhibition explores the connections between historical violence and contemporary life through nuanced paintings inspired by his European travels.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Sabrina Bockler Sails Us Into "Shallow Water"

Bockler's work challenges traditional portrayals of femininity, celebrating autonomy and the complexities of boundaries through mythological and contemporary lenses.
moreart-exhibition

Shogun's Tadanobu Asano Had to Consider Every Side of Yabushige

Yabushige's transformation from a morbidly humorous character to a tragic figure highlights themes of betrayal and the search for redemption.

The Skeleton Dance, Voted the 18th Best Cartoon of All Time, Is Now in the Public Domain (1929)

Ub Iwerks was crucial in animating The Skeleton Dance, showcasing the collaboration between him and Walt Disney in early animation.

Do Our Dogs Have Something to Tell Us?

Training a dog should balance obedience with fostering independence to ensure healthy behavior and self-confidence.

Where the Chefs Eat: Max Rocha's favourite seaside restaurants in the UK

Cooking brought Max Rocha the peace and calm he sought after leaving the music industry.
#communication

Dear Abby: I'm dismayed by my husband's campaign against my gray hair

Personal choices about appearance should be respected in a marriage.
It's important to communicate and compromise without undermining each other.
A spouse's feelings shouldn't dictate their partner's self-expression.

Why Don't Men Text Other Men Back?

Men often struggle with communication in friendships, especially through texting, leading to anxiety and stagnant relationships.

Dear Abby: I'm dismayed by my husband's campaign against my gray hair

Personal choices about appearance should be respected in a marriage.
It's important to communicate and compromise without undermining each other.
A spouse's feelings shouldn't dictate their partner's self-expression.

Why Don't Men Text Other Men Back?

Men often struggle with communication in friendships, especially through texting, leading to anxiety and stagnant relationships.
morecommunication

Nikki Glaser Came Prepared

Nikki Glaser's meticulous preparation and self-deprecating style made her Golden Globes hosting successful and effective.

Dear Abby: I cannot bear to call the baby by his given name

Navigating family names can reignite trauma if associated with abusive figures, necessitating careful communication and possible nicknaming alternatives.

It's Raining Men review adultery comedy puts the heat in cheat

Laure Calamy's charm and comedic style shine in a lighthearted film about infidelity and midlife crises.
The film explores infidelity without shame, highlighting a distinctly French perspective on relationships.

I stayed with my parents for 30 days after giving birth. My mom took care of me and my baby.

Family support during motherhood is invaluable, providing rest and nurturing.

33 Products So Good That They're Basically Overachievers

Urban Decay setting spray effectively preserves makeup during intense conditions, providing a reliable solution for those with sensitive skin.

The Real Housewives of Potomac Recap: Woe is Mia

Reality TV combines scripted elements with organic moments, creating a dynamic storytelling experience, but this season's narrative feels fragmented and incomplete.
from www.theguardian.com
2 days ago

At 41, was Isabella Rossellini too old to be beautiful in 1994?

Isabella Rossellini's dismissal by Lancôme at age 42 serves as a striking example of ageism in the fashion and beauty industry.
from www.theguardian.com
2 days ago

Nickel Boys review sublime, immersive adaptation of Colson Whitehead's haunting reform school novel

Great adaptations honor the original literary work while presenting a unique cinematic vision.
'Nickel Boys' exemplifies a successful book-to-film adaptation that captures both story and essence.
from Polygon
1 day ago

DC's Batman reboot promised hope, but Wonder Woman and Superman delivered

The Absolute line reinvents iconic superheroes with unexpected depth and complexity, showcasing darker narratives through innovative artistry.

I've been waging war on my phone addiction | Rhik Samadder

Turning off mobile data leads to insights and challenges in daily life, affecting both personal and professional realms significantly.

Teen Refuses To Let Her Mom Use Her Makeup After Misuse

The teenage daughter feels violated and frustrated after her mother uses her makeup without permission, damaging the expensive products in the process.

Book Review: The Granddaughter,' by Bernhard Schlink

The Granddaughter explores themes of family secrets and personal struggles through Birgit's hidden life and her husband's quest for understanding.

Forged by pressure, Chiquis lets her artistry flourish on 'Diamantes'

Chiquis embarks on her musical journey, overcoming personal loss and industry challenges, culminating in a triumphant performance reflective of her hard work.

The Forgotten Book Genre That Explains a Lot About Today's Culture Wars

The ongoing panic about cancel culture mirrors previous moral panics and reflects deep-rooted societal fears.
Global adoption of 'political correctness' highlights the pervasive nature of moral panic across countries.

The more relaxed you are, the better you are as a human': Nicole Kidman on Kubrick, sharks and risk-taking

Nicole Kidman connects with her daughter through relatable pop culture, showing a lighter, playful side that contrasts with her on-screen persona.

My Daughter Will Not Make a Great Stepmother. I'm Already Watching This All Blow Up in Real Time.

Laura and her husband must prioritize Grace's needs and feelings in their new blended family dynamic.

How a journey to Bali to reconnect with my father helped me to rediscover my heritage and my happiness

Jessica Rach reflects on her emotional journey to reconnect with her Balinese heritage and family identity during a visit to Ubud.
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