So this week I read a Destiny Man article by leadership expert and (author of The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari) Robin Sharma and in it he suggested that we should keep Journals.
Journals??
-Yes Journals?
For men?
-Yes for men!!!
Aren't Journals for...STOP RIGHT THERE!!!
I use to keep a journal, in it I documented some of the major events in my life. I started writing it in 2005 (when I was in Grade11) and stopped around 2007 during my 1st year at varsity.
Those years were a bit rough for me, I was under pressure to perform well in school, felt a bit like the Israelites in the wilderness, didn't know what career path to choose, struggled with some of my most important subjects, I had just kicked off my motivational speaking and of course there was a little romance happening in my life.
So the journal was a place where I could engage myself on a one-on-one basis, I could spell out my goals for my life 5-10 years on and follow up on them on a day-to-day basis.
When my results came out I would have an accountability session with myself detailing why I didn't make it and instill implementation strategies for the new term ahead. At times I was hard on myself, sometimes shouting (and even swearing) at myself for not performing according to my full potential.
It was a also a sanctuary for my emotions, a place where I could come out and express some of the deepest concerns of my family, friends and the little romance that I had in my life. I never had anybody to get emotional with, and not the 'emotional' where men frown and express anger just to hide their genuine emotion, but the 'emotional' where you are honest with the bruises that may have been leveled on the strong-you, by even the weakest of people.
You see the secret is out, men do get emotional, those who pretend not to, spend their lives building hard exteriors that not only self-destruct in the future but cause those around them perpetual harm and despondency, leaving bitter tastes in the mouths of their wives and children (reference: Oprah Show).
Further than it being an emotional one, it can be space that you spend in engaging yourself, writing down your yearly business visions and goals, tracking them week to week. Write down your spiritual desires and weaknesses suggest ways in which to overcome them. The accountability part of it is also quite crucial, you can question yourself on:
-why you have put on so much weight with no consideration?
- Why you still put-off pursuing that part-time course at the business school answer the tough questions like why you have been using business profits on females that do you no good.
You can even ask more long term questions like, should you take that Job Offer in Cape Town, or stay in Witbank, look at the cost implications, the growth and exposure implications.
One can even engage themselves on the options between a potential romance brewing up, is this the person for you? Do they contain the qualities you look for or Is it just a lustful desire? If it is a lustful desire is it worth pursuing, and if so what are costs and the benefits?
The truth of the matter is that most of us roam around the earth with unanswered questions in our lives, confusions of sorts. When we are unsure we tend to ask other people of their opinions of the situations in our lives, when in fact the answers are right in the inside of us. The trick is we don't spend enough time with ourselves to 'unearth'the answers.
Men, Real Men are those that can spend time engaging and deliberating with themselves, those that are brutally honest with their weaknesses and also build on their strengths. Men who cannot be honest with themselves are less likely to be honest with other people (REAL TALK).
I could conclude by telling you that Nelson Mandela, Winston Churchill, Steve Biko had journals...and because these great men had journals you should have one too, but that would be me trying to be a salesperson. I am being honest with you now, man to man...the benefit of getting a journal far out weighs the costs.
The cost is that you may seem a bit feminine to both yourself and those around you, this is especially true in SA's deep rooted african patriarchal culture.
The benefit is that you get in touch with you, the real you...and are able to afford finer nights of rest.
Gosh, this is hectic, let me go put it in my journal #running.
2 tips To Make Keeping A Journal Easier
Tip #1:
One of the wonderful things about this technologically advanced world of ours is that we have all these wonderful devices that can make 'Journaling' a lot easier. Carrying a small book will probably have people suspecting you for a journalist or a private investigator, but you can use cool things like a note-pad in your phone. These cool functions give you the ability to document in even the most awkward of places, when time avails itself. You can journal on your blackberry while you wait in a line in the bank, you can find a quiet place while they wash the car or even when you are waiting for your girlfriend to 'FINISH UP' *Frown*.
Just make sure you look over your shoulder for those funny people in line that make it a habit of not minding their own business.
Tip#2:
You don't have to Journal everyday, you can do it every second day, or every third day depending on your comfortability. But make sure that you don't use your journal for emotional frustrations only, but let it be a wholistic experience with self.
Try it, if it doesn't work I will allow all men to make me stand trial for 'Crimes Against Manhood'. If it works, tell a friend.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Conference- Report
So the Emalahleni Development Conference has passed and it has been a very emotional experience, partly because it was one of the greatest ideas I have ever concievd, and partly because I have never experienced so much disappointment from so many people in such a short space of time.
The idea was born sometime during my exam time, I got all excited bout it, but chose to draft a brief skeleton and shelve it lest I get distracted and forget about Finance 3 which has given me a whooping before.
After my exams I engaged a couple of individuals who I believd would make a substantial contribution to the event, some of them live in Johannesburg and others in Emalahleni, all of them very close to me, trusted confidants.
These people were game, all three of them thought the idea was a noble one and expressd their intrest in it.
The two difficult tasks in organizing the conference was the speakers and sponsorships, the speakers part was not all that difficult, the relationships I had with all the speakers or with people who knew the speakers were the catalyst in the process, and a special thanks to Carol Mkhize and Monde Ndlovu for setting us up with our guest speakers, speakers we would not have otherwise had.
Sponsorship was the biggest headache of them all. My initial hope for the finance side of things was that we could secure sponsorship from the black business community who I had hoped would back this event wholeheartedly. I avoided big corporates because of the hassle of red tape.
My approach to the businessmen would be 'let us develop the youth', and most of them liked the sound of the tune, I had secured a potential sponsor within two weeks and a cousin of mine who had expressed an intrest in sponsoring and a couple of other directions. I saw no reason for signing letters of intent because of the very close relationships I had with these people...a decision I would later deeply regret.
When it came to delivering on the promises both people backed out. Another had a genuine investment problem, and my one cousin stoppd answering my calls completely.
I tried other business people, and their declined responses ranged in their negativity. One man came out right and told me 'NO' another gave me a two week run around and finally said 'NO' and another kept on postponing, and postponing and postponing.
There was another deep blow to the event: MARKETING. This aspect I will not discuss at length, I will however let you know that concrete plans that were set up. Our only hindrance was the finances and a thousand postponements from our appointed marketing manager. I will however take full responsibility for that failure; my indecision to react swiftly when the clock was ticking was a lack of decisive leadership on my part.
With no sponsorship and no marketing to help in running this event I had a decision to make. Either cancel or postpone the event.
I personally think it would've bin criminal to postpone the event, solely because there is no perfect time or condition to begin a revolution, for an event of this magnitude and aim is similar in magnitude and thought as any revolution, whether it be a revolution of arms like the armed struggle, or a revolution of the mind like black consciousness...it is a revolution nonethless. I decided that it would be more of an evil to run the event and fail, than not run the event at all. From that point onwards ther were no two ways about it, we were going to hustle this event into being, and hustle we did.
My mother and family member’s decided to chip in, Mr. Jerry Makhudu also helped me out financially with a bit of marketing and in the band. I think he did so with realization of my desperation (a true blessing indeed), the Local Municipality gave us the hall free of charge, Peace Sibanyoni gave us free coverage of the event, Pearl and Twister from Prolific designs did a wonderful job on the designing and printing on the posters...we got going. Thabiso Mabogoane also helped us out with some of the large expenses.
On the day of the event as I hustled I was torn apart by the numbers...I couldn't believe that the amount of work put in would be from an average of 50ppl on all three sessions...but at that moment I had a choice to make... to be de-motivated by the many who had decided to stay at home, or conjure up the little strength for the few who had the determination and resilience to stay and be part of such an initiative.
I enjoyed myself though, I wouldn’t have spent my time doing anything else.
I have heard Dr. Naves speak before, obviously because of the tremendous amount of time I have spent with her, but Mr. Lot Ndlovu blew me away, the intellect the honesty and the effort put in his speech shows that he counted us among the cream of the countries youth, it was captivating indeed. What was even more fulfilling was that they are Witbank’s very own proud products.
Carol and Kabelo carried the baton wonderfully and didn’t disappoint, they upheld the standard as I knew they would. What I liked about their message was that it wasn’t theatrical but simply honest and testimonial, what more could one ask for.
If you ask me if the event was a failure or success I wouldn’t answer you, I don't know. I am the worst judge of such things. I think the best judge of this event will be the future...yep the future... the future events, future conferences...and the future generations. Another good judge would be those who were there. I am just looking forward to the next one.
As I said this generation of the youth of Emalahleni will influence the continent...I have no doubt about that.
The idea was born sometime during my exam time, I got all excited bout it, but chose to draft a brief skeleton and shelve it lest I get distracted and forget about Finance 3 which has given me a whooping before.
After my exams I engaged a couple of individuals who I believd would make a substantial contribution to the event, some of them live in Johannesburg and others in Emalahleni, all of them very close to me, trusted confidants.
These people were game, all three of them thought the idea was a noble one and expressd their intrest in it.
The two difficult tasks in organizing the conference was the speakers and sponsorships, the speakers part was not all that difficult, the relationships I had with all the speakers or with people who knew the speakers were the catalyst in the process, and a special thanks to Carol Mkhize and Monde Ndlovu for setting us up with our guest speakers, speakers we would not have otherwise had.
Sponsorship was the biggest headache of them all. My initial hope for the finance side of things was that we could secure sponsorship from the black business community who I had hoped would back this event wholeheartedly. I avoided big corporates because of the hassle of red tape.
My approach to the businessmen would be 'let us develop the youth', and most of them liked the sound of the tune, I had secured a potential sponsor within two weeks and a cousin of mine who had expressed an intrest in sponsoring and a couple of other directions. I saw no reason for signing letters of intent because of the very close relationships I had with these people...a decision I would later deeply regret.
When it came to delivering on the promises both people backed out. Another had a genuine investment problem, and my one cousin stoppd answering my calls completely.
I tried other business people, and their declined responses ranged in their negativity. One man came out right and told me 'NO' another gave me a two week run around and finally said 'NO' and another kept on postponing, and postponing and postponing.
There was another deep blow to the event: MARKETING. This aspect I will not discuss at length, I will however let you know that concrete plans that were set up. Our only hindrance was the finances and a thousand postponements from our appointed marketing manager. I will however take full responsibility for that failure; my indecision to react swiftly when the clock was ticking was a lack of decisive leadership on my part.
With no sponsorship and no marketing to help in running this event I had a decision to make. Either cancel or postpone the event.
I personally think it would've bin criminal to postpone the event, solely because there is no perfect time or condition to begin a revolution, for an event of this magnitude and aim is similar in magnitude and thought as any revolution, whether it be a revolution of arms like the armed struggle, or a revolution of the mind like black consciousness...it is a revolution nonethless. I decided that it would be more of an evil to run the event and fail, than not run the event at all. From that point onwards ther were no two ways about it, we were going to hustle this event into being, and hustle we did.
My mother and family member’s decided to chip in, Mr. Jerry Makhudu also helped me out financially with a bit of marketing and in the band. I think he did so with realization of my desperation (a true blessing indeed), the Local Municipality gave us the hall free of charge, Peace Sibanyoni gave us free coverage of the event, Pearl and Twister from Prolific designs did a wonderful job on the designing and printing on the posters...we got going. Thabiso Mabogoane also helped us out with some of the large expenses.
On the day of the event as I hustled I was torn apart by the numbers...I couldn't believe that the amount of work put in would be from an average of 50ppl on all three sessions...but at that moment I had a choice to make... to be de-motivated by the many who had decided to stay at home, or conjure up the little strength for the few who had the determination and resilience to stay and be part of such an initiative.
I enjoyed myself though, I wouldn’t have spent my time doing anything else.
I have heard Dr. Naves speak before, obviously because of the tremendous amount of time I have spent with her, but Mr. Lot Ndlovu blew me away, the intellect the honesty and the effort put in his speech shows that he counted us among the cream of the countries youth, it was captivating indeed. What was even more fulfilling was that they are Witbank’s very own proud products.
Carol and Kabelo carried the baton wonderfully and didn’t disappoint, they upheld the standard as I knew they would. What I liked about their message was that it wasn’t theatrical but simply honest and testimonial, what more could one ask for.
If you ask me if the event was a failure or success I wouldn’t answer you, I don't know. I am the worst judge of such things. I think the best judge of this event will be the future...yep the future... the future events, future conferences...and the future generations. Another good judge would be those who were there. I am just looking forward to the next one.
As I said this generation of the youth of Emalahleni will influence the continent...I have no doubt about that.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Emalahleni is the POWA!!!
So over the past month I have had the privelage of working on the Emalahleni Development Conference, as difficult and incomplete as the task is, I must say I feel very enthusiastic about it. Not because it promises to be one of the most extravagent events the city has seen but because it signals the beginning of great things to come within the city of Emalahleni.
I feel very honord to be born in this generatn, as I said on one of my blogs, that I would pass the opportunity to be born during Gen 1:1 to be born in this generatn, I would even pass the opportunty of experiencing June 1976 and even the civl rights movment, all so that I can be right here and right now. This is the 'make it happen' generation, a generation whose agitation of the current state of affairs makes them wish for a better tomorrow, and further more vigilantly pursue it.
The sole purpose of this conference is to launch a series of events that will inspire and provide leadership developments in the city. Moreover it is created to initiate an environment of constructiv engagement with in the youth of the city. By constructive engagment I mean engagement which is key to influencing the future of the city. This means socio-economical issues with in the city, and other politicial and religious engagemtns.
To mentions but a few of the 'topics' that we will dicuss further on in the confrence,
- the role of young professionals over and above their professional careers
-developing the economics of the regions through the development of small business
-the role in which the spiritual community can play an active and practical role in the development of the youth
- Nationalisation, and its practicality and relevance in our generation
-the role that mentorship can play in the development of the youth
These are just a few of the topics that the conference will cover over the years of its existence.
The confrence will solely be built around the development of the region, and will ensure that many of the issues that deal with the youth (directly) are discussed and are efficiently and effectivly dealt with.
As I have vehemently stated this is not a gethering of a sinlg type of grouping, but seeks to engage all the sectors of society.
When we commence the confrence on Friday, we will have a motivational talk by myself on Friday 17:30 @ lynville hall,
On Saturday we will follow with a dynamic and youth specific leadership talk by Lot Ndlovu and Dr. Pat Naves. The speakers lived in Witbank for a great amount of time, especially in the foramtive years of their success. They have both gone on 2 achieve tremendous amounts of success, Lot Ndlovu as once presidnet of the BMF and once Executive Director of Nedbank Group Ltd. Dr. Pat Naves in her careers as a successful academic, human resoeuces though leader and as former director of human resources @ the SABC.
On Saturday we finish off with a wonderful spiritual session by Kabelo ‘Buga Luv’ Mabalane and my personal friend and leader Carol Mkhize. We all know Kabelo and his story, and I will save Carols introduction for when I do introduce her, but both these individuals are going to deal with an aspect which I personally believe is integral to the development of 'effective' leadership.
The confrence was meant to have two legs which were unfortunately canceled due to the lack of support of the event by the black business. We will however begin with a tremendous experience to be followed (hopefully) during youth month.
I hope that we will come in numbers and I hope it attracts more crowds than shisa nyama on a Friday night. As ambitious as that sounds it represents a genuine desire, that if we are to enjoy debauchery we would at least also indulge in constructive sessions for the benefit of the mind and soul. I also hope that the event would spread faster than gossip and that it occupies people’s minds and conversations for months after its staging.
Sounds Ambitious doesn’t it? Not at all, it’s actually very practical and necessary, talking about our future and our children’s future is very practical and necessary.
Emalahleni Development Confrence.... Developing the Next Generation of leaders.
Emalahleni is the POWA!!!!
I feel very honord to be born in this generatn, as I said on one of my blogs, that I would pass the opportunity to be born during Gen 1:1 to be born in this generatn, I would even pass the opportunty of experiencing June 1976 and even the civl rights movment, all so that I can be right here and right now. This is the 'make it happen' generation, a generation whose agitation of the current state of affairs makes them wish for a better tomorrow, and further more vigilantly pursue it.
The sole purpose of this conference is to launch a series of events that will inspire and provide leadership developments in the city. Moreover it is created to initiate an environment of constructiv engagement with in the youth of the city. By constructive engagment I mean engagement which is key to influencing the future of the city. This means socio-economical issues with in the city, and other politicial and religious engagemtns.
To mentions but a few of the 'topics' that we will dicuss further on in the confrence,
- the role of young professionals over and above their professional careers
-developing the economics of the regions through the development of small business
-the role in which the spiritual community can play an active and practical role in the development of the youth
- Nationalisation, and its practicality and relevance in our generation
-the role that mentorship can play in the development of the youth
These are just a few of the topics that the conference will cover over the years of its existence.
The confrence will solely be built around the development of the region, and will ensure that many of the issues that deal with the youth (directly) are discussed and are efficiently and effectivly dealt with.
As I have vehemently stated this is not a gethering of a sinlg type of grouping, but seeks to engage all the sectors of society.
When we commence the confrence on Friday, we will have a motivational talk by myself on Friday 17:30 @ lynville hall,
On Saturday we will follow with a dynamic and youth specific leadership talk by Lot Ndlovu and Dr. Pat Naves. The speakers lived in Witbank for a great amount of time, especially in the foramtive years of their success. They have both gone on 2 achieve tremendous amounts of success, Lot Ndlovu as once presidnet of the BMF and once Executive Director of Nedbank Group Ltd. Dr. Pat Naves in her careers as a successful academic, human resoeuces though leader and as former director of human resources @ the SABC.
On Saturday we finish off with a wonderful spiritual session by Kabelo ‘Buga Luv’ Mabalane and my personal friend and leader Carol Mkhize. We all know Kabelo and his story, and I will save Carols introduction for when I do introduce her, but both these individuals are going to deal with an aspect which I personally believe is integral to the development of 'effective' leadership.
The confrence was meant to have two legs which were unfortunately canceled due to the lack of support of the event by the black business. We will however begin with a tremendous experience to be followed (hopefully) during youth month.
I hope that we will come in numbers and I hope it attracts more crowds than shisa nyama on a Friday night. As ambitious as that sounds it represents a genuine desire, that if we are to enjoy debauchery we would at least also indulge in constructive sessions for the benefit of the mind and soul. I also hope that the event would spread faster than gossip and that it occupies people’s minds and conversations for months after its staging.
Sounds Ambitious doesn’t it? Not at all, it’s actually very practical and necessary, talking about our future and our children’s future is very practical and necessary.
Emalahleni Development Confrence.... Developing the Next Generation of leaders.
Emalahleni is the POWA!!!!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
2011
So it's the last day of the year, 2010 comes to an end. If you had asked me five years ago, "where would you be on the 30th of December 2010?" I would've mentioned a couple of places, and a couple of activities but none of them would include sitting in my mothers lounge, listening to Bill Withers preparing a piece for a blog that has about twenty active SA visitors, two from the US and three from the UK...(My blog stats recently revealed this to me, I think it's the CIA and Scotland Yard checking up on me after I made that tasteless status update about 9/11 not too long ago).
I thought and hoped I would definitely be far by now (in terms of personal accomplishment).
Besides the hype around soccer world cup, 2010 for me was meant to be the end of a long, tiring and winding journey, and at the close of 2010 I would be preparing 4 a new chapter.
Well as you can tell by the bitter taste on these lines, I am not quite there. As a matter of fact the original plan has been aborted. Partly by choice and partly by circumstance.
That's the thing with all plans of life, you plan to get to point 'A' on method 1 and all of a sudden the winds of reality have pushed you into an intended direction landing you in unanticipated territory.
There are only a handful of people that have had the privilege of smooth sailing towards their goals.
Yet for those of us who haven't the benefit of reaching our goals in (desired) time, there is always the added benefit of lessons learnt.
When I look at where I was 5 years ago, and I look at where I am now I am quite pleased with the distance covered. Of course I could've covered more, but I do believe I have covered a reasonable level.
One of the greatest deterrents of efficient planning is that individuals have a tendency of looking at the original objective and desired outcome, and forget all the added benefits that come with the journey itself, e.g. when I went to Wits the original plan was to get a degree and get out, a degree that would prepare me for the corporate posts I would occupy over this life of mine. Yes I didn't get there in the desired time, but I had the opportunity of building 2 non-profit organization's and a business. I've rubbed shoulders with some of the greatest 'next-generation' leaders this country is about to see. All of these lessons and relationships are going to be instrumental in my development as a human being, as a businessman, father and whatever else I choose 2 be in the future.
Many of us stop dreaming and planning because we are tired of failed attempts, un-met expectations and the emotional roller coasters. Our hearts get so tired that they settle for no expectation instead of being teased and dropped.
But our lives are so much more than profit forecasts, and cash flow projections...they are a series of experiences, all of which are necessary processes for our next step.
All of these experiences are necessary for our growth, for our health and for our sanity and none of them should be undermined, or despised even in our temporary distress.
I don't believe that the universe conspires to help us reach our achievements (it's probably because I haven't met Mr. Universe), I do believe however that God works everything out for our good...I somehow trust that even though my own life does not go according to my plan, that his hand is somehow involved in ensuring that His plan (and not mine) gets fulfilled, and that is not at all an excuse for sluggish behavior.
As the year 2011 comes through I hope we will look back upon 2010 and smile and we will prepare our resolutions, our plans and desires and pursue them with all strength and determination.
Two years ago I was telling a cousin of mine how the year 2008 had been a rocky one for me, and how I just felt that I had deeply messed up. He advised me as such, "My chief it's alright, what has happened has happened, just make sure that when I talk to you next year on the same date, you are singing a different tune from the current one'
So I put this challenge to you, no matter how good or bad the year has been for you...put your plans down and make sure that when you sit down to sing next year (on the 31st of december 2011) with the orchestra of your achievements, you are singing the exact tune that was penned down on your music sheet 12 months before.
Heppy Heppy
I thought and hoped I would definitely be far by now (in terms of personal accomplishment).
Besides the hype around soccer world cup, 2010 for me was meant to be the end of a long, tiring and winding journey, and at the close of 2010 I would be preparing 4 a new chapter.
Well as you can tell by the bitter taste on these lines, I am not quite there. As a matter of fact the original plan has been aborted. Partly by choice and partly by circumstance.
That's the thing with all plans of life, you plan to get to point 'A' on method 1 and all of a sudden the winds of reality have pushed you into an intended direction landing you in unanticipated territory.
There are only a handful of people that have had the privilege of smooth sailing towards their goals.
Yet for those of us who haven't the benefit of reaching our goals in (desired) time, there is always the added benefit of lessons learnt.
When I look at where I was 5 years ago, and I look at where I am now I am quite pleased with the distance covered. Of course I could've covered more, but I do believe I have covered a reasonable level.
One of the greatest deterrents of efficient planning is that individuals have a tendency of looking at the original objective and desired outcome, and forget all the added benefits that come with the journey itself, e.g. when I went to Wits the original plan was to get a degree and get out, a degree that would prepare me for the corporate posts I would occupy over this life of mine. Yes I didn't get there in the desired time, but I had the opportunity of building 2 non-profit organization's and a business. I've rubbed shoulders with some of the greatest 'next-generation' leaders this country is about to see. All of these lessons and relationships are going to be instrumental in my development as a human being, as a businessman, father and whatever else I choose 2 be in the future.
Many of us stop dreaming and planning because we are tired of failed attempts, un-met expectations and the emotional roller coasters. Our hearts get so tired that they settle for no expectation instead of being teased and dropped.
But our lives are so much more than profit forecasts, and cash flow projections...they are a series of experiences, all of which are necessary processes for our next step.
All of these experiences are necessary for our growth, for our health and for our sanity and none of them should be undermined, or despised even in our temporary distress.
I don't believe that the universe conspires to help us reach our achievements (it's probably because I haven't met Mr. Universe), I do believe however that God works everything out for our good...I somehow trust that even though my own life does not go according to my plan, that his hand is somehow involved in ensuring that His plan (and not mine) gets fulfilled, and that is not at all an excuse for sluggish behavior.
As the year 2011 comes through I hope we will look back upon 2010 and smile and we will prepare our resolutions, our plans and desires and pursue them with all strength and determination.
Two years ago I was telling a cousin of mine how the year 2008 had been a rocky one for me, and how I just felt that I had deeply messed up. He advised me as such, "My chief it's alright, what has happened has happened, just make sure that when I talk to you next year on the same date, you are singing a different tune from the current one'
So I put this challenge to you, no matter how good or bad the year has been for you...put your plans down and make sure that when you sit down to sing next year (on the 31st of december 2011) with the orchestra of your achievements, you are singing the exact tune that was penned down on your music sheet 12 months before.
Heppy Heppy
Sunday, December 12, 2010
FIGHT BACK
Fighting back is about standing up for what you believe in.
If you believe in your dreams you'll fight back when circumstances come your way, when people try to take it away 4rmyou, when lecturers attempt 2 steal it 4rm you.
Fighting Back means that you are not a whiner, you don't cry over spilt milk, or lost wars or failed attempts...you don't cry over what could've been, but u rejoice over what will be.
Your rejoicing does not stem 4rm unsubstantiated emotions, but on the understanding that you are going to give it your all. You are not consoled by false hope, your excitement is not rooted on figments of imagination but on Gods promises...he said he wouldn't leave you, you trust Him, everyday you wake up with that faith that trust, that He who has brought you this far will not leave you.
Fighting back is not only about recovering all that's been lost, but seeking to recover all and more. Its about understanding that the struggles were not 4 nothing and that the inevitable victory is not simply there to restore order, but to create a new order. The order of abundance the order of purpose, the order of new blessings every morning.
Those who fight back know that the Kingdom suffereth violence and the violent take it by force, we know there is an enemy. sometimes he portrays himself as such, other times he purports to b a friend, sometimes he spews violence other times he seems sympathetic 2 our cause. Whatever his strategies we know him now, we have seen him...we know his voice...we know who to run from and who to run to...
Fight back...fight back...nothing in the world will be achieved without fighting.
Throw a punch, or a stone or a brick, swing a slap, kick,put sum teeth and sum nails... , scratch, whatever you do don't watch while circumstances try 2 bring you down, even with your back against the ropes, or the referee counting you out...FIGHT BACK!!!
If you believe in your dreams you'll fight back when circumstances come your way, when people try to take it away 4rmyou, when lecturers attempt 2 steal it 4rm you.
Fighting Back means that you are not a whiner, you don't cry over spilt milk, or lost wars or failed attempts...you don't cry over what could've been, but u rejoice over what will be.
Your rejoicing does not stem 4rm unsubstantiated emotions, but on the understanding that you are going to give it your all. You are not consoled by false hope, your excitement is not rooted on figments of imagination but on Gods promises...he said he wouldn't leave you, you trust Him, everyday you wake up with that faith that trust, that He who has brought you this far will not leave you.
Fighting back is not only about recovering all that's been lost, but seeking to recover all and more. Its about understanding that the struggles were not 4 nothing and that the inevitable victory is not simply there to restore order, but to create a new order. The order of abundance the order of purpose, the order of new blessings every morning.
Those who fight back know that the Kingdom suffereth violence and the violent take it by force, we know there is an enemy. sometimes he portrays himself as such, other times he purports to b a friend, sometimes he spews violence other times he seems sympathetic 2 our cause. Whatever his strategies we know him now, we have seen him...we know his voice...we know who to run from and who to run to...
Fight back...fight back...nothing in the world will be achieved without fighting.
Throw a punch, or a stone or a brick, swing a slap, kick,put sum teeth and sum nails... , scratch, whatever you do don't watch while circumstances try 2 bring you down, even with your back against the ropes, or the referee counting you out...FIGHT BACK!!!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Dr. Spin
You have probably caught on to politicians’ mastery of giving long-winding names to straight forward activity. Like the most commonly used term for corruption these days is 'political conspiracy' in a America we saw 'The War on Terror', that as you already know was another phrase used 2 describe America’s attempted takeover of eastern resources. And (of course) “Weapons of Mass Destruction” is a phrase used to identify the figment in the U.S. Government’s imagination of evidence that they (the Americans) will use as the primary reason to attack...it's like the guns or the drugs they plant on people just so they can have reason to arrest them, only in America's case they don't actually get around to planting the evidence, and after their 'war on terror' is over and they realize that the world is waiting for answers they say 'Oops we were wrong, mistakes happen' and wait for the next president to clean up the mess.
This amongst others represents the way in which we as human beings have used the mastery of the English language against (both) others (enemies, people around us etc) and ourselves. For instance these days we have flings, this term is used to denote relations between two individuals that has as its primary purpose the satisfaction of the physical desires of the parties. “Friends with benefits” is another commonly used term.
Quite recently I have heard of the word, “itshotsho” which (directly translated) represents the money that you would pay to an official at the traffic department to get a license or a policeman/metro officer to allow you off the hook even though you smell like a brewery and just skipped a red robot at 200 km/h (in the middle of the CBD).
Of course one cannot doubt the far reaching implications of such tendencies. The war on terror is a perfect example, there is no excuse for the animalistic manner in which basic human rights were violated lives and families ruined, all in the name of oil and the furtherance of the American empire's hand (well) into the pockets of 'developing countries' (another term whose meaning will be saved for a debate for another day).
Our lives are shaped by a variety of factors, all of these are highly important.
A great determinant of the quality of our lives is the labels we place on the actions we partake in and those that happen around us. I think it kind of determines how far we are willing to push the line. The label will also determine the frequency of the action, for instance it is probably more common that you will find friends with benefits now (in our generation) more than you previously would, (of course the validity of my claim is subject to research and the growth of the population) but I think you may agree with me just based on your observation, the level of teenage pregnancy and what your grandparents say about this generation of ours.
If you don’t agree think about two sets of guys. They both have different names for excessive provision of drinks, playing drinking games, and the supplement of social drugs such as weed and then sleeping with girls. One group calls this “Date Rape” the other calls it “Alcohol Lubrication”, which group is (in your opinion) more likely to continue with the action?
The conclusion that labels determine frequency is further entrenched by this fact: once a label is attached, there is a definition that follows, this definition usually seeks to clarify the label (on the action) and further explain the relevance of the action. I actually saw the true meaning on a documentary I caught not too long ago.
Tshepo (a gangster) is interviewed on TV about the reasons he commits the crimes that he does. He started by mugging moved to house break ins, to car hijacking, to cash in transit heists until he founded his own organization that specialize in hijacking and cash in transit heists. Asked why he does what he does, his rationale is that he doesn't steal from black people, (not anymore that is) he only steals from the very oppressors (and their offspring) who took away the wealth that originally belonged to us. In essence he is 'taking back' (repossessing) what originally belonged to him.
What perfectly sound logic behind his cause don't you think?
Tshepo simply believes that he is in the repossessing business, simply taking back what rightfully belonged to us in the first place. Anyone can see some logic in the rationale, it has meaning. This deep level of thought (applied) allows the perpetrator to continue on his mission without the constant burden of his conscience.
The explanation is usually associated with a ‘need’ and an explanation of why the action meets the need. Once constructed this wall of thought becomes a stronghold in the mind of the individual. It now goes further than the phrase, but is further rooted by the reasons given.
“A smoke is a stress reliever, it helps me study.”
“It’s not cheating if she doesn't find out.”
So the first part in this deadly equation is the part where we give it a euphemistic term, to clothe its barrenness. For instance Tshepo would in this process swap the phrase stealing for repossession.
The second part is when we define it, of course in the definition the stage has already been set, and the wording is carefully chosen to fit the already euphemistic term. For instance America would call define the 'war on terror' as: the freezing/safeguarding of eastern capital so as to eliminate the possibility of that vey capital being used against them (America).
That's one of the characters of these words, they possess so much logic that as a listener you cannot help but concede as to the relevance and the need for the action. You agree, sympathize, nod, put yourself in the situation...you understand. “Of course it’s a political conspiracy, he didn't do anything to deserve the charge. It’s his enemies, the whites, the media. He didn't bribe anyone (neither did he accept a bribe). It’s not corruption, it’s a political conspiracy.”
My aim with this piece is not to point fingers, God knows there are three other fingers pointing at me…he also knows there are times when I... *no never mind.*
The primary aim is to present to you the dangers of words, the danger of using words to clothe the real intention of our actions and effect from its performance. The mind is a powerful tool, it knows the desires of the 'flesh' and it can (when pushed) present a range of explanations (for the affirmative) that will contend the original dissuasion.
It knows what you want and what you do not want, and it can assist you to effectively complete the assignments facilitated by human weakness.
The secondary aim is to present to you how low a bar can go. The phrase 'booty call' is more mature in age than its sibling fling/friends with benefits. It is a more raw and crude term denoting the very same thing. One is more likely to accept the phrase fling than booty call, simply because ‘fling’ is more sensitive to the cause. The word booty is a rather unpolished word for bum, and simply translated the word “booty call” means a call for sex (which usually happens in the late hours of the night/ early hours of the morning). Once human beings became more and more acquainted both with the English language and their ‘needs’ they invented a term that depicts more generally (and respectfully) the relations that they sought.
The lower we set the bar for ourselves whether in matters of accomplishment, standard of living and moral value, the lower it has the possibility of going, this is captured by the phrase 'aim for the stars and fall on the clouds'. I say this not because of my motivational speaker title but because of its reality.
I also hope that we would kill the spin doctor within. Yes the guy who keeps on using the English language against us. The guy who says, “Let me just rest” when we know we crossed the lazy line an hour ago. We should kill that guy, he's a liar, seriously. He's also the same guy who told you to bribe that cop, 'just get it over and done with so you can go to your family' good advice aint it. In the greater scheme of things? No! I mean who's going to be crying when their car gets hit by a drunk driver on the M1 who just paid inducement money on Empire Road.
We never really get to see the prelude to the accident on T.V., we just see the accident. We don’t see the guy arguing in his head whether he should or shouldn’t have another beer, whether he should call a cab. We just see a bus overturned and a car underneath it.
We also never get to see the man wrestling within his heart about whether he should get the hot girls number, arguing whether he should call her (or not), whether he should sleep with her or not. We just see a fed up mother leaving with the kids. I can bet you a thousand bucks, it started with the spin doctor within.
We never hear the spin doctor speak, but if you can listen carefully to other people speak you can recognize his voice he sounds a little bit like this: "I did not have sexual relations with that woman", "how can a virus cause a syndrome" and the classic "I am a man I have needs."
This amongst others represents the way in which we as human beings have used the mastery of the English language against (both) others (enemies, people around us etc) and ourselves. For instance these days we have flings, this term is used to denote relations between two individuals that has as its primary purpose the satisfaction of the physical desires of the parties. “Friends with benefits” is another commonly used term.
Quite recently I have heard of the word, “itshotsho” which (directly translated) represents the money that you would pay to an official at the traffic department to get a license or a policeman/metro officer to allow you off the hook even though you smell like a brewery and just skipped a red robot at 200 km/h (in the middle of the CBD).
Of course one cannot doubt the far reaching implications of such tendencies. The war on terror is a perfect example, there is no excuse for the animalistic manner in which basic human rights were violated lives and families ruined, all in the name of oil and the furtherance of the American empire's hand (well) into the pockets of 'developing countries' (another term whose meaning will be saved for a debate for another day).
Our lives are shaped by a variety of factors, all of these are highly important.
A great determinant of the quality of our lives is the labels we place on the actions we partake in and those that happen around us. I think it kind of determines how far we are willing to push the line. The label will also determine the frequency of the action, for instance it is probably more common that you will find friends with benefits now (in our generation) more than you previously would, (of course the validity of my claim is subject to research and the growth of the population) but I think you may agree with me just based on your observation, the level of teenage pregnancy and what your grandparents say about this generation of ours.
If you don’t agree think about two sets of guys. They both have different names for excessive provision of drinks, playing drinking games, and the supplement of social drugs such as weed and then sleeping with girls. One group calls this “Date Rape” the other calls it “Alcohol Lubrication”, which group is (in your opinion) more likely to continue with the action?
The conclusion that labels determine frequency is further entrenched by this fact: once a label is attached, there is a definition that follows, this definition usually seeks to clarify the label (on the action) and further explain the relevance of the action. I actually saw the true meaning on a documentary I caught not too long ago.
Tshepo (a gangster) is interviewed on TV about the reasons he commits the crimes that he does. He started by mugging moved to house break ins, to car hijacking, to cash in transit heists until he founded his own organization that specialize in hijacking and cash in transit heists. Asked why he does what he does, his rationale is that he doesn't steal from black people, (not anymore that is) he only steals from the very oppressors (and their offspring) who took away the wealth that originally belonged to us. In essence he is 'taking back' (repossessing) what originally belonged to him.
What perfectly sound logic behind his cause don't you think?
Tshepo simply believes that he is in the repossessing business, simply taking back what rightfully belonged to us in the first place. Anyone can see some logic in the rationale, it has meaning. This deep level of thought (applied) allows the perpetrator to continue on his mission without the constant burden of his conscience.
The explanation is usually associated with a ‘need’ and an explanation of why the action meets the need. Once constructed this wall of thought becomes a stronghold in the mind of the individual. It now goes further than the phrase, but is further rooted by the reasons given.
“A smoke is a stress reliever, it helps me study.”
“It’s not cheating if she doesn't find out.”
So the first part in this deadly equation is the part where we give it a euphemistic term, to clothe its barrenness. For instance Tshepo would in this process swap the phrase stealing for repossession.
The second part is when we define it, of course in the definition the stage has already been set, and the wording is carefully chosen to fit the already euphemistic term. For instance America would call define the 'war on terror' as: the freezing/safeguarding of eastern capital so as to eliminate the possibility of that vey capital being used against them (America).
That's one of the characters of these words, they possess so much logic that as a listener you cannot help but concede as to the relevance and the need for the action. You agree, sympathize, nod, put yourself in the situation...you understand. “Of course it’s a political conspiracy, he didn't do anything to deserve the charge. It’s his enemies, the whites, the media. He didn't bribe anyone (neither did he accept a bribe). It’s not corruption, it’s a political conspiracy.”
My aim with this piece is not to point fingers, God knows there are three other fingers pointing at me…he also knows there are times when I... *no never mind.*
The primary aim is to present to you the dangers of words, the danger of using words to clothe the real intention of our actions and effect from its performance. The mind is a powerful tool, it knows the desires of the 'flesh' and it can (when pushed) present a range of explanations (for the affirmative) that will contend the original dissuasion.
It knows what you want and what you do not want, and it can assist you to effectively complete the assignments facilitated by human weakness.
The secondary aim is to present to you how low a bar can go. The phrase 'booty call' is more mature in age than its sibling fling/friends with benefits. It is a more raw and crude term denoting the very same thing. One is more likely to accept the phrase fling than booty call, simply because ‘fling’ is more sensitive to the cause. The word booty is a rather unpolished word for bum, and simply translated the word “booty call” means a call for sex (which usually happens in the late hours of the night/ early hours of the morning). Once human beings became more and more acquainted both with the English language and their ‘needs’ they invented a term that depicts more generally (and respectfully) the relations that they sought.
The lower we set the bar for ourselves whether in matters of accomplishment, standard of living and moral value, the lower it has the possibility of going, this is captured by the phrase 'aim for the stars and fall on the clouds'. I say this not because of my motivational speaker title but because of its reality.
I also hope that we would kill the spin doctor within. Yes the guy who keeps on using the English language against us. The guy who says, “Let me just rest” when we know we crossed the lazy line an hour ago. We should kill that guy, he's a liar, seriously. He's also the same guy who told you to bribe that cop, 'just get it over and done with so you can go to your family' good advice aint it. In the greater scheme of things? No! I mean who's going to be crying when their car gets hit by a drunk driver on the M1 who just paid inducement money on Empire Road.
We never really get to see the prelude to the accident on T.V., we just see the accident. We don’t see the guy arguing in his head whether he should or shouldn’t have another beer, whether he should call a cab. We just see a bus overturned and a car underneath it.
We also never get to see the man wrestling within his heart about whether he should get the hot girls number, arguing whether he should call her (or not), whether he should sleep with her or not. We just see a fed up mother leaving with the kids. I can bet you a thousand bucks, it started with the spin doctor within.
We never hear the spin doctor speak, but if you can listen carefully to other people speak you can recognize his voice he sounds a little bit like this: "I did not have sexual relations with that woman", "how can a virus cause a syndrome" and the classic "I am a man I have needs."
Monday, November 22, 2010
Born for such a time as this!!!
Inspired by Martin Luther Kings' Last Speech.
If by some chance today as I was walking through the street, I bumped into my creator took me for lunch and asked me this question, “Son which area and era would you rather be born?” I would take a tour through the garden of Eden where the beginning began, where the sea was parted from the land and the sky was given its blue. I would watch as the animals were given their names one by one, and the first medical surgery was performed by the creator himself and woman was created from the bone of man.
I would carry on to the time when the Messiah walked the earth as flesh and blood. I would observe the wonder as he discipled the disciples that took the word of faith to the world, where he constructed poetic parables to school us on the soundest and simplest of truths...
I would laugh myself to tears as Lucifer attempted to deceive the author of our faith into sin, and I would rejoice as the messiah himself put truth to the principle: “Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
But I would kindly refuse to be put into that era. And as he further walked me, my tears of joy would turn into tears of sadness, when I pass through the times of the evil slave trade. When men of dark skin were violated by men of lighter skin, auctioned off to the highest bidders, and shipped away to a destination unknown.
I would weep even further when I see some of these men and women being tossed over the ships when they became unruly, or fell sick from the ocean, or when there was a shortage of food to fill their large and empty African stomach.
Witnessing all of this I would nag the Lord to take me to another place for this era is too painful for my nerves to bear. I know for a fact that he would take me to the times of the Civil Rights Movement when these very slaves started realizing their value and protesting purposefully and peacefully.
I would probably be enticed and inspired by that age. For I would listen as Donny Hathaway sang, “One day, someday we will all be free”
When Bill Withers said, “Lean on me, when you’re not strong, I’ll be your friend, I’ll help you carry on.”
I would witness as a man changed his name from Cassius Clay to Mohammed Ali, and marvel as he flew like a butterfly and stung like a bee.”
I would watch from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, in Washington D.C. as a man shouted from the top of his reverend’s voice as he told the multitudes gathered that he had a dream, a dream that very few saw as possible.
And as the Lord almighty tried to take me to yet another scene, a separate time and place I would stop Him and humbly say, “Lord you have taken through many a place time and various a time, I cannot help but honour the wonder of the world and sometimes ambiguous beauty of your people...it is good.
But I have heard of a place and I want you to take me there, and as he enquired, “Where my son?” I would humbly answer, “Take me to that place between the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean, that place with the summer rains and the icy dry winters.
Take me to a time ten years after the millennium, 16 years after the birth of a democracy. Take me to the South of Botswana and Zimbabwe to the west of Maputo.
I want to see the Cape of Good Hope where there is a mountain shaped like a table, from there take me to the playground of Durban so I can play the night away.
Take me to Pretoria Mahlanyeng, the city of Supersport and Sundowns where the men drink, gulp and swallow like fish and the women are shaped like 8.
I have heard of Egoli the concrete jungle where dreams are made of, where there’s nothing that you cannot do. Jozi the streets that make you feel brand new and big lights will inspire you.
Take me to that land, lord where the people hosted a certain soccer tournament in their very own backyard, even though the naysayers, the pessimists and cynics said they lacked the capacity to host it and even bound to mess it all up. Yet having said all this the whole World, yes the whole of the earth, (including the fish of the sea, beasts of the land and even the mountains themselves) all witnessed that these those people are people of vision and endless possibilities.
That is where I want to go. That land where the people are pregnant with prospects, are contagious with their can-do character and ooze Ubuntu.
Take me to the land of Tambo and Mandela, of Sobukwe and Biko, of Tutu and Luthuli.
I want to go to the land of wonderful melodies where a lady once sang, “Friday night, yes I know, you must be waiting for me, you must be waiting for me.”
Take me there Lord, that is where I want to go.
And if by some chance God grants me this wonderful wish, I will be very grateful.
I will wake up every morning with a skip in my step and a swagger in my stride, even when the times are tough and the finances rough, I will not lose sight of the possibilities that lie ahead.
I will make as many friends as I can, from as many backgrounds as I can.
I will find myself a fine African woman, (hopefully from Pretoria lol) , I will marry, have kids and raise them in that land.
I will play like a little boy and sweat like his father, I will dream like a little girl but labour like her mother.
After all is said and done I will go to God with one more request. “Lord help the people of that land. Help them to be aware of their deficiencies, but focus on their strengths (what they do have) and use these to build whatever future they would like to have. If the future is building rivers in deserts, or walking on water, if it is healing the sick or raising the dead, even if it is to run on the surface of the wind...as long as their mind can perceive...through their sweat and hands they can receive it. For I have seen possibilities in that land, possibilities that no naked eye can see and no ordinary mind can comprehend. I have seen your very presence and hand over that land...Lord make sure that you bless Africa, especially the Africa in the South.!”
If by some chance today as I was walking through the street, I bumped into my creator took me for lunch and asked me this question, “Son which area and era would you rather be born?” I would take a tour through the garden of Eden where the beginning began, where the sea was parted from the land and the sky was given its blue. I would watch as the animals were given their names one by one, and the first medical surgery was performed by the creator himself and woman was created from the bone of man.
I would carry on to the time when the Messiah walked the earth as flesh and blood. I would observe the wonder as he discipled the disciples that took the word of faith to the world, where he constructed poetic parables to school us on the soundest and simplest of truths...
I would laugh myself to tears as Lucifer attempted to deceive the author of our faith into sin, and I would rejoice as the messiah himself put truth to the principle: “Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
But I would kindly refuse to be put into that era. And as he further walked me, my tears of joy would turn into tears of sadness, when I pass through the times of the evil slave trade. When men of dark skin were violated by men of lighter skin, auctioned off to the highest bidders, and shipped away to a destination unknown.
I would weep even further when I see some of these men and women being tossed over the ships when they became unruly, or fell sick from the ocean, or when there was a shortage of food to fill their large and empty African stomach.
Witnessing all of this I would nag the Lord to take me to another place for this era is too painful for my nerves to bear. I know for a fact that he would take me to the times of the Civil Rights Movement when these very slaves started realizing their value and protesting purposefully and peacefully.
I would probably be enticed and inspired by that age. For I would listen as Donny Hathaway sang, “One day, someday we will all be free”
When Bill Withers said, “Lean on me, when you’re not strong, I’ll be your friend, I’ll help you carry on.”
I would witness as a man changed his name from Cassius Clay to Mohammed Ali, and marvel as he flew like a butterfly and stung like a bee.”
I would watch from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, in Washington D.C. as a man shouted from the top of his reverend’s voice as he told the multitudes gathered that he had a dream, a dream that very few saw as possible.
And as the Lord almighty tried to take me to yet another scene, a separate time and place I would stop Him and humbly say, “Lord you have taken through many a place time and various a time, I cannot help but honour the wonder of the world and sometimes ambiguous beauty of your people...it is good.
But I have heard of a place and I want you to take me there, and as he enquired, “Where my son?” I would humbly answer, “Take me to that place between the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean, that place with the summer rains and the icy dry winters.
Take me to a time ten years after the millennium, 16 years after the birth of a democracy. Take me to the South of Botswana and Zimbabwe to the west of Maputo.
I want to see the Cape of Good Hope where there is a mountain shaped like a table, from there take me to the playground of Durban so I can play the night away.
Take me to Pretoria Mahlanyeng, the city of Supersport and Sundowns where the men drink, gulp and swallow like fish and the women are shaped like 8.
I have heard of Egoli the concrete jungle where dreams are made of, where there’s nothing that you cannot do. Jozi the streets that make you feel brand new and big lights will inspire you.
Take me to that land, lord where the people hosted a certain soccer tournament in their very own backyard, even though the naysayers, the pessimists and cynics said they lacked the capacity to host it and even bound to mess it all up. Yet having said all this the whole World, yes the whole of the earth, (including the fish of the sea, beasts of the land and even the mountains themselves) all witnessed that these those people are people of vision and endless possibilities.
That is where I want to go. That land where the people are pregnant with prospects, are contagious with their can-do character and ooze Ubuntu.
Take me to the land of Tambo and Mandela, of Sobukwe and Biko, of Tutu and Luthuli.
I want to go to the land of wonderful melodies where a lady once sang, “Friday night, yes I know, you must be waiting for me, you must be waiting for me.”
Take me there Lord, that is where I want to go.
And if by some chance God grants me this wonderful wish, I will be very grateful.
I will wake up every morning with a skip in my step and a swagger in my stride, even when the times are tough and the finances rough, I will not lose sight of the possibilities that lie ahead.
I will make as many friends as I can, from as many backgrounds as I can.
I will find myself a fine African woman, (hopefully from Pretoria lol) , I will marry, have kids and raise them in that land.
I will play like a little boy and sweat like his father, I will dream like a little girl but labour like her mother.
After all is said and done I will go to God with one more request. “Lord help the people of that land. Help them to be aware of their deficiencies, but focus on their strengths (what they do have) and use these to build whatever future they would like to have. If the future is building rivers in deserts, or walking on water, if it is healing the sick or raising the dead, even if it is to run on the surface of the wind...as long as their mind can perceive...through their sweat and hands they can receive it. For I have seen possibilities in that land, possibilities that no naked eye can see and no ordinary mind can comprehend. I have seen your very presence and hand over that land...Lord make sure that you bless Africa, especially the Africa in the South.!”
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