Unveiling Radiance
This weekend enveloped me in breathtaking beauty. Beauty in the environment, the experiences, and – most importantly – the people. Amidst it all, I stumbled upon an unexpected epiphany.
There was a moment when I found myself shrinking in the presence of such grand beauty, my old wounds of inadequacy aching to sabotage my ability to embrace these moments.
Yet, in that moment of vulnerability, I was gifted with an encounter that altered my perspective. I ended up having a conversation with a person whose radiance transcended their being. They exuded warmth, love, and joy. But little did I know, hidden beneath their infectious spirit, lay their own insecurity.
Despite this, this person was bold enough to push their boundaries and venture outside the familiar comforts. Their bravery, raw honesty, and vulnerability inspired me to do the same.
My epiphany at this moment was realizing that they couldn’t see what I saw, the brilliance they emanated. They were too close to their own light to recognize the beauty they effortlessly radiated.
And astonishingly, they saw the same radiance in me.
Like a match, I had been fixated on the chemical compounds that ignited the flame, oblivious to the mesmerizing dance of its glow.
In that moment of revelation, felt my shadows of self-doubt recede and was encouraged to embrace my own incandescent spirit.
This weekend gifted me the wisdom that beauty resides not only in breathtaking surroundings or extraordinary experiences but also in the genuine connections we forge with others.
It reminded me that true beauty lies in the authenticity of our interactions, in the vulnerability we share, and in the profound impact we have on each other’s lives.
Looking back, I am grateful for the transformative power of that encounter.
It served as a poignant reminder that we are often our own harshest critics, unable to fully appreciate the brilliance we possess. But through the eyes of another, we catch glimpses of our own radiance, reflecting back the beauty that emanates from deep within.
As I bid farewell to this remarkable weekend, I carry with me the memories of the breathtaking beauty that surrounded me. But more importantly, I carry the lessons learned, etched deep within my being. I am forever changed, standing taller, embracing the fullness of who I am.
Knowing deep within that my flame burns brightly, even when unseen.
Always,
Your Trusted Friend ❤︎
When You Least Expect It
I couldn’t help but think of the aphorism; “You’ll find love when you least expect it” as I was writing The Power of Being Yourself.
Why?
Because it suggests that love often comes into our lives when we are not actively seeking or searching for it. It implies that love has a way of finding us when we are not preoccupied or desperate for it.
If I had a dollar for every time someone has said this to me I’d be a millionaire and it was begrudgingly that I had to admit that there might be some truth to it.
When we are actively searching for love or constantly striving to find a partner, it’s easy to become consumed by our desires and expectations. This can sometimes lead to a sense of desperation, where we may compromise our authenticity or settle for less than what we truly want and need.
I certainly know I’ve been guilty of this.
By “least expecting it,” it means that love tends to come when we are focused on other aspects of our lives, such as learning a new skill, pursuing our passions, or simply enjoying our own company. When we are content and fulfilled within ourselves, we exude a certain confidence and positive energy that can be attractive to others.
Additionally, when we are not actively looking for love, we may be more open to new experiences and connections, because our life is being led by the experiences themselves. We are not burdened by specific expectations or a rigid checklist of qualities we want in a partner. This openness allows us to encounter people naturally and without a predetermined agenda, creating an opportunity for genuine connections to form.
This is not to say that love cannot be found outside of this blueprint, obviously. Love can be found in various ways and at different times in our lives. Some people do find love when they actively seek it, while others stumble upon it unexpectedly.
Despite what route you’re drawn to, the key lies in maintaining authenticity and being true to yourself, whether you are actively searching for love or not. By focusing on personal growth, living authentically, and nurturing genuine connections, you increase your chances of finding fulfilling and authentic relationships, regardless of when or how it happens.
Always,
Your Trusted Friend ❤︎
P.S. I’d love to hear how you have created fulfilling and authentic relationships. Please tell me your stories in the comments!
The Power of Being Yourself
Today, I want to delve into an idea that has been on my mind lately – the power of authenticity in relationships. It’s an interesting paradox: when we’re not actively seeking a romantic connection or striving to win someone over, we often find ourselves attracting people to us effortlessly. But the moment we start looking, striving, and actively pursuing, something seems to change. We may put on a façade that masks our true selves and even give off an air of desperation, which can push people away.
When we are not fixated on the idea of being in a relationship, we have a tendency to be more relaxed in our own skin. We embrace who we truly are, without the need for external validation. This self-assuredness shines through and naturally attracts like-minded individuals who are drawn to our genuine selves.
On the flip side, when we actively start pursuing and desiring relationships, there’s a tendency to slip into a “trying too hard” mentality. We may feel the need to mold ourselves into what we believe the other person wants or expects. It’s as if we’re putting on a mask, hoping that it will bring us closer to our desires. Here’s the reality: true connections are built on honesty, vulnerability, and being true to ourselves. This is what draws meaningful relationships to us.
When we lose touch with our authenticity, we not only compromise our own happiness but also risk pushing away potential partners who would have appreciated the real us. Desperation, whether consciously or unconsciously displayed, can be sensed by others and repeal that which we would want to attract.
So how can we strike a balance? How can we actively pursue relationships while staying true to ourselves? I hate this advice, and perhaps this is my long way of saying precisely what I hate; invest in yourself and do the things you love. Instead of frantically searching for someone to fill a void, focus on personal growth and self-fulfillment. Invest time in activities that bring you joy, pursue your passions, and cultivate meaningful friendships. When we are content in our own lives, we radiate a magnetic energy that naturally draws others towards us.
Remember, relationships are not meant to complete us; they are meant to enhance our lives. Embracing our authenticity means honoring our unique quirks, flaws, and strengths. It means being honest about our desires, boundaries, and aspirations. When we prioritize self-love and self-acceptance, we attract individuals who appreciate and value us for who we genuinely are… and we’re told it’ll happen, “when we least expect it.”
But it’s not because we ‘least expect it’, it’s because we’ve embraced the power of authenticity in our pursuit of relationships. So, let’s resist the urge to put on masks and instead show up as our true selves. By doing so, we create a space where genuine connections can flourish. So, take a deep breath, be confident in your authentic self, and let the magic of true connection unfold naturally.
Stay true, stay authentic, and watch as beautiful relationships blossom.
Always,
Your Trusted Friend ❤︎
P.S. Have you ever experienced the power of being authentic in relationships? I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
Masterpiece Mindset
The “masterpiece mindset” is a profound state of mind where I wholeheartedly embrace and believe in the inherent worth and beauty that resides within me. It encompasses a deep recognition that I am a remarkable work of art, composed of unique qualities, experiences, and attributes that set me apart from anyone else. It’s a mindset that transcends self-doubt and self-criticism, acknowledging that there are no mistakes or flaws in who I am, but rather a tapestry of intricacies and nuances that converge to create something extraordinary.
In this mindset, I cultivate a genuine appreciation for my own uniqueness, recognizing that it is the very essence of what makes me exceptional. I no longer seek external validation or compare myself unfavorably to others. Instead, I revel in the richness of my individuality and the myriad ways in which I contribute my own brushstrokes to the canvas of life. It’s an empowering perspective that allows me to wholeheartedly embrace my true self, unapologetically expressing who I am without fear or hesitation.
Embracing the “masterpiece mindset” means celebrating my own journey, and acknowledging the trials and triumphs that have shaped me into the person I am today. It’s an understanding that every experience, whether joyful or challenging, has contributed to the masterpiece that I continue to become. I recognize that growth and self-improvement are ongoing processes, and I embrace them with open arms, knowing that they only enhance the intricate beauty of my existence.
Within this mindset, I find the freedom to authentically express myself, unleashing my passions, talents, and dreams without reservation. I break free from the constraints of societal expectations or limited self-beliefs, choosing to live boldly and unapologetically. I wholeheartedly honor and cherish my own voice, ideas, and creativity, fully aware of their integral contribution to the grand masterpiece that is my life.
The “masterpiece mindset” is an invitation to cherish and honor myself, to love and accept myself unconditionally. It’s a powerful reminder that I am a work of art, continuously evolving and growing, never limited by the opinions or judgments of others. It is an empowering mindset that allows me to shine my unique light brightly, inspiring others to embrace their own masterpiece and celebrate the beauty that lies within each of us.
Always,
Your Trusted Friend ❤︎
Our Unique Beauty
It is essential to pause and reflect upon the profound truth that each of us possesses our own extraordinary allure. Nature, in its infinite wisdom, has gifted us with a unique and awe-inspiring beauty that sets us apart from one another. Today, I was struck by the realization that comparing ourselves to others is an exercise in futility. Instead, let us embark on a journey of self-acceptance and appreciation, cherishing the remarkable gifts bestowed upon us by nature.
In a society that often imposes narrow standards of beauty, it is crucial to embrace and celebrate our individuality. Just as no two snowflakes are alike, no two individuals possess the same configuration of beauty. Our physical appearance, shaped by a myriad of factors, becomes a canvas on which our distinctiveness is painted. From the curves and contours of our bodies to the intricate features of our faces, every element contributes to a tapestry that tells the story of our unique existence. Rather than seeking validation through comparison, let us honor the magnificence of our individuality and revel in the diversity that surrounds us.
When riddled by self-doubt and insecurity, the act of embracing our own beauty becomes an act of rebellion. It requires courage and strength to silence the inner critic and dismantle the harmful notion that our worth is determined by how closely we resemble an artificial standard. Self-acceptance is a radical act of self-love, a declaration that we are deserving of love, respect, and admiration just as we are. By acknowledging and appreciating the unique attributes that nature has bestowed upon us, we unlock the power to radiate confidence and inspire others to do the same.
While physical appearance is an undeniable part of our individual beauty, it is essential to recognize that our allure extends far beyond the external. True beauty emanates from within, encapsulating our kindness, compassion, resilience, and authenticity. It is the sparkle in our eyes when we passionately pursue our dreams, the warmth of our smile when we uplift those around us, and the grace with which we navigate life’s challenges. As we cultivate our inner beauty, we enhance the radiance that shines through our physical form, creating a harmonious synergy that captivates and inspires others.
Acknowledging and appreciating the beauty that nature has bestowed upon us also entails caring for ourselves, both physically and emotionally. Engaging in self-care practices allows us to nourish our bodies and souls, fostering a deep sense of well-being. It involves honoring our bodies with nutritious foods, engaging in regular exercise, and embracing rituals that replenish our energy. Additionally, self-care involves cultivating positive self-talk, practicing mindfulness, and surrounding ourselves with uplifting influences. By treating ourselves with love and care, we amplify our innate beauty and lay the foundation for a life of fulfillment and joy.
Let us embrace the splendor of our unique beauty. We are each bestowed with a divine gift from nature, a beauty that cannot be replicated or diminished by external standards. As we embark on a journey of self-acceptance and self-love, we inspire others to do the same. Let us honor and cherish the incredible gifts that nature has bestowed upon us, knowing that true beauty lies not in comparison but in the authentic and wondrous essence of who we are.
Always,
Your Trusted Friend ❤︎
Life’s Transformative Lessons
As we journey through life, we accumulate wisdom and experiences that shape our perspectives and guide our paths. On the occasion of my 45th birthday, I find myself reflecting upon the invaluable lessons I’ve learned along the way. Here are ten transformative lessons that have enriched my life and may inspire yours.
- Choose people and places that revitalize, restore, and inspire. In the grand tapestry of life, the company we keep and the environments we immerse ourselves in play a profound role in our overall well-being. Surrounding ourselves with individuals who uplift our spirits and seeking out places that ignite our sense of wonder can breathe new life into our souls, fostering personal growth and happiness.
- If it feels forced, it’s probably not your path. Life has a way of presenting us with various opportunities, but not all of them align with our authentic selves. When a decision or pursuit feels forced or out of sync, it may be a sign that it veers away from our true purpose. Trust your instincts and have the courage to veer off the beaten path, in pursuit of endeavors that resonate deeply with your core being.
- Experiences are more important than things. In our consumer-driven society, it’s easy to be enticed by material possessions and the illusion of happiness they promise. However, as time goes by, it becomes evident that the richness of life lies not in the accumulation of things, but in the moments we cherish and the experiences we embrace. Cultivate a mindset that prioritizes meaningful encounters, unforgettable adventures, and the beauty of simply being present.
- It’s not a roadblock, it’s a detour. Life is a series of twists and turns, and sometimes we encounter unexpected challenges that seem insurmountable. However, it’s important to remember that what may appear as a roadblock is often a detour leading us to new horizons, unforeseen opportunities, and personal growth. Embrace these detours with resilience and an open mind, for they may guide you towards uncharted territories and profound self-discovery.
- If you have to explain, rationalize, or convince, it’s probably not for you. Authenticity is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. If you find yourself in a position where you need to explain or rationalize the behavior of others, whether to yourself or to friends and family, it may be an indication that those individuals are not meant for you. Authentic relationships are built on understanding, respect, and a shared sense of acceptance. Trust your instincts and choose connections that uplift and support your true self, allowing you to thrive in an environment of genuine understanding.
- Boundaries are lessons for how to love you. Setting and honoring boundaries is an act of self-love and respect. It teaches others how to treat us and, equally important, how to treat ourselves. By clearly defining our limits, we create space for healthy relationships, personal growth, and emotional well-being. Embrace the power of boundaries as a transformative tool that nurtures self-care and fosters deeper connections.
- Trust your intuition, it’s never wrong. The quiet whisperings of our intuition often go unnoticed amidst the noise of daily life. However, this innate guidance system is a reliable compass that can lead us towards our true purpose and fulfillment. Learn to tune in, trust your inner voice, and follow its guidance. The more you cultivate this trust, the more confidently you can navigate the intricate web of life.
- Don’t let fear limit you or restrict you. Fear has a way of holding us back from realizing our full potential. It whispers doubts and insecurities, urging us to stay within our comfort zones. But growth and transformation require us to step beyond the familiar and embrace the unknown. Recognize that fear is often a signpost indicating areas ripe for personal growth. Embrace the discomfort, challenge your limits, and let courage be your guiding force. By facing your fears head-on, you will unlock doors to new possibilities and embark on extraordinary journeys.
- Growth isn’t always strictly forward, it’s cyclical. The path of personal growth is not always a linear ascent; it is a journey filled with twists, turns, and cycles. Just as nature experiences seasons of growth, dormancy, and rebirth, so too do we undergo periods of expansion, introspection, and transformation. Embrace the ebb and flow of life, for it is within the cyclical nature of growth that we find valuable lessons, resilience, and the opportunity to evolve into our truest selves.
- Love yourself first and most. Amidst the demands and expectations of daily life, it’s crucial to prioritize self-love and self-care. Nurturing a deep and unconditional love for yourself sets the foundation for a fulfilling and meaningful existence. Embrace your strengths, forgive your flaws, and honor your needs. Treat yourself with the kindness, compassion, and respect that you would offer to a cherished loved one. Remember that by loving yourself first and most, you create a wellspring of love that overflows and positively impacts all aspects of your life.
Life is a magnificent journey filled with profound lessons and transformative experiences. As we navigate its ever-changing landscape, it is essential to remain open to growth, authenticity, and self-discovery. These ten lessons can serve as guiding principles to help navigate the intricacies of life, inspiring you to choose wisely, trust your inner voice, and embrace the transformative power of self-love and personal growth. May they serve as reminders to live with intention, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to your own happiness and fulfillment.
So, on this milestone birthday, I invite you to reflect upon your own journey and the lessons that have shaped you. Embrace the beauty of growth, cherish the power of self-discovery, and celebrate the extraordinary adventure that is your life.
With gratitude and anticipation for the remarkable chapters ahead, always,
Your Trusted Friend ❤︎
Reclamation of Feminine Power
As I delve deeper into the archetype of the Siren, I can’t help but feel the need to defend and reframe her. The story of the Siren has been told and retold by men who were afraid of her power, scared of her allure.
Through the telling of this story and similar tales of women who hold this same power, both men and women have been warned that embracing the power of their sensuality is evil.
As a result, these women have been cast as villains.
The Siren, The Sorceress, and the Enchantress are all powerful, sensual, confident, seductive women who are seen as using their magnetism to control and manipulate others, particularly men.
But let’s consider other women in history who were feared because of the power they held: Medusa, Circe, Lilith, and Morgan le Fay, just to name a few. These women were all demonized for their ability to command attention and exert control over others. And yet, we rarely hear about the stories of the men who attempted to subjugate and silence them.
In mythology and folklore, these women share similar traits and roles. They are all examples of a similar archetype and because of this are often demonized and seen as dangerous.
Morgan le Fay in Arthurian Legends is a complex enigmatic figure who is feared for her sensuality and mastery of magic. Seen as a powerful female figure in the Arthur legends, represents control, sorcery, and manipulation. She is portrayed as using underhanded, often manipulative methods to create her power.
Medusa of Greek mythology is a powerful Gorgon whose gaze can turn people to stone and is also often depicted as seductive and dangerous. According to The Met Museum, Medusa is portrayed in most Greek art as an “apotropaic symbol used to protect and ward off the negative,” representing a “dangerous threat meant to deter other dangerous threats, an image of evil to repel evil.” In modern tales of Gorgon though, she is a symbol of female rage.
Lilith, from Jewish folklore, is Adam’s first wife who is described as a powerful demon associated with sexual desire and temptation. In the creation story, she refuses to allow Adam to dominate her and flees the garden despite the consequences.
Circe, also from Greek mythology, is a sorceress who can transform her enemies into animals and is feared for her ability to manipulate men. Circe has come to illustrate how women can be crafty, intelligent, sneaky, disloyal, and cruel.
These women are often seen as villains and threats to the status quo because of their defiance of traditional gender roles and societal expectations.
These archetypes can also be seen as symbolic representations of feminine power and sexuality that have been suppressed and feared by patriarchal societies throughout history.
They challenge the notion that women should be passive and submissive and instead embody a potent and alluring force that can be both empowering and, as such, perceived as dangerous.
By embracing this energy, we can connect with our own inner strength and intuition. It can help us assert ourselves and to trust our instincts and abilities, resisting the idea that femininity is weak or passive, and instead asserting our own agency and authority.
As I look within myself, I recognize that this feminine power is not evil, nor does it make me a villain. The alluring and enchanting aspect just naturally exists within me and all women. It’s a power that has been suppressed and devalued for centuries, but it’s a power that is now being reclaimed and celebrated.
It’s time to reframe the narrative and give these women the respect they deserve. It’s time to recognize that sensuality and power are not inherently evil, but rather a natural expression of the feminine. It’s time to embrace and celebrate our ability to enchant and captivate, and to reject the notion that doing so makes us dangerous or immoral.
So let’s celebrate the Siren, the Medusa, the Circe, the Lilith, and the Morgan le Fay in all of us.
Let’s acknowledge and honor the power that comes with being a woman, and let’s never again allow that power to be demonized or silenced.
Always,
Your Trusted Friend ❤︎
The Siren
Are you currently on a journey to recapture your confidence and establish stronger self-esteem and a sense of self-worth?
If you’re anything like me, then this is the continual journey that you’re on. For me, I’ve found it to be important to remember to take a step back and reconnect with my inner power and sensuality. That’s why The Siren archetype can be such a powerful tool for increasing self-confidence and sense of self-worth.
The Siren can help you tap into your inner strength and attract positivity and abundance into your life, and as I find myself struggling in this area as of late this is the archetype I find myself drawn to emulating and capturing as my own.
Why, you might ask.
The Siren represents sensuality, femininity, and power. Embodying this archetype can help you connect with these qualities within yourself, and become more confident and comfortable in your own skin – at least that is my goal.
One way to connect with the energy of The Siren is by wearing mermaid colors, such as blues and greens, which evoke the calming and transformative energy of the ocean. To wear mermaid colors connects with the mythical origins of the siren as a seductive creature who lured sailors with its enchanting voice and beauty. Wearing these colors can serve as a visible reminder of your personal power.
You can also tap into your innate magnetism by embracing your sensuality, femininity, and inner strength, and becoming a powerful force that attracts positivity and abundance into your life. By embracing this innate magnetism within, you can then tap into your feminine magnetism and draw people and experiences that help you grow and thrive.
The Siren has often been associated with danger and manipulation. I can’t help but wonder if this is a perversion of feminine magnetism. Embodying The Siren is not about manipulating others or using your charm to get what you want. Instead, it’s about embracing your power and connecting with your inner voice and intuition.
You see, magnetic women exude a state of open relaxation – they allow themselves to feel and receive all that life has to offer. They’ve cultivated a deep sense of inner confidence and self-assurance, which means they don’t need external validation to feel good about themselves.
And here’s the thing: feminine magnetism is all about operating from a place of love and freedom rather than fear and attachment. It’s about being comfortable in your own skin and owning your worth without needing anyone else’s approval.
When you do so, you become more confident in expressing yourself authentically, which is essential for building a strong sense of self-worth and self-esteem.
The siren archetype operates from this space and represents femininity, sensuality, and strength, making it a potent tool for tapping into these qualities within yourself and connecting you with your inner voice and intuition. By doing so, you can become a powerful force in your own life, attracting positivity and abundance and cultivating a strong sense of self-worth and confidence.
Perhaps it’s time to embrace the energy of The Siren.
Always,
Your Trusted Friend ❤︎
Non-Player Character
The NPC.
This term refers to the characters in video games that you interact with within the game, that is not controlled by another player.
These characters are controlled by the computer and are only able to interact with very limited repetitive actions and responses that are scripted and automatic.
They exist as supporting characters or ‘extras’ that the actual player interacts with along their journey in gameplay and to further the storyline.
The term NPC has grown to encompass a broader meaning over time.
In 2016 the NPC meme made an appearance, which is graphically based on the Wojak mean. This same meme was later weaponized to troll online, is an insult used to suggest that some people are unable to form thoughts or opinions of their own, and has continued to evolve into TikTok trends.
Could this term have a deeper meaning for us?
When someone calls someone an NPC in real life, they are implying that they are “unable to think objectively” and continually repeating and parroting information that they have heard from someone else.
These are the people who are just bodies occupying space and without the ability to think for themselves.
They are the followers, not the leaders, the ones who let life happen to them and seem to exist primarily to forward the plot of the people around them.
Potentially serving as a conflict, or barrier that someone else has to overcome in order to level up and get closer to fulfilling their destiny.
In a life that makes it easy to fall into the monotony of the day-to-day adulting tasks that are required of us, how do we avoid becoming a mere NPC in our own lives?
The answer: by taking control and ownership.
To avoid becoming an NPC in our own lives we need to choose our destiny and life path and be active participants, instead of letting life happen to us.
You actively pursue a career that excites and fulfills you, even if it doesn’t fit the mold of what’s expected instead of following a predetermined career path, simply following what is laid out by parents, teachers, or society without questioning whether it truly aligns with your passions and interests.
You are open and willing to express your own opinions and engage in healthy debate and discussion instead of agreeing with the opinions of others, without questioning or challenging them, lacking autonomy and originality in your own thoughts and actions
You take care of yourself and prioritize your own needs and desires in order to live an authentic life. Making intentional choices and setting boundaries that honor your own values and priorities instead of prioritizing the needs and wants of others over your own, and neglecting your own self-care and well-being,
The key characteristic of an NPC is that of someone living passively.
Someone who is just going through the motions, regurgitating the opinions of others and not seeking opportunities for growth and change and because of this they are someone who lacks substance and is therefore not memorable.
Choosing your destiny and life path, on the other hand, means taking an active role.
It means setting goals, making intentional choices, taking steps to create the life you want, and actively working toward the future you envision for yourself.
Choose your own path and live a life that’s memorable, fulfilling, and uniquely yours.
Always,
Your Trusted Friend ❤︎
Love Yourself More
“I love you, but I love me more.”
Television can be a great place for inspiration fodder.
This is said by Samantha Jones in Sex and the City when she is forced to make a hard decision in love.
With these words, she demonstrates that when you love yourself more it means that you will love a person to the best of your ability while still making self-care a priority.
Because we are able to support and care for others without sacrificing our own well-being.
It means you’re strong enough to support, love, and care for another person, but independent enough to walk away when you need to.
In action, it means that you can be a Samantha when called for.
Self-love isn’t only important in romantic relationships – it’s crucial for all aspects of our lives.
When we prioritize self-love, we’re putting ourselves first in a healthy way.
This doesn’t mean that we’re selfish or self-centered – it means that we recognize our own worth and value and are willing to invest in our own happiness and well-being.
It can take many forms, from practicing self-care to setting boundaries and saying no when we need to.
Ultimately, when we love ourselves more, we’re able to love others in a healthy way.
A lot of decisions could be made more clear by applying this statement to our own lives and loving ourselves more.
Loving yourself more should serve as a blueprint for making choices that guarantee your own health, happiness, and well-being.
A love worth staying for will never ask you to abandon yourself.
Love yourself more.
Always,
Your Trusted Friend ❤︎
Always, Your Trusted Friend
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