The Writing Forum Presents
Poetry and Short Stories
by D. S. Mullis

 

POET’S BIO:

I’ve been writing inspirational poetry off and on for over 30 years. My first book of poetry, The “Spicer” of Life, a book of inspirational poetry, was released through AuthorHouse Publishers in June, 2008. If you’re interested in purchasing, there’s a link below.

My parents adopted me when I was 18 months old, and they have been my godsend. My daddy died on 5/7/07 at the age of 93, and my precious mama is still living at age 95. Her mind is still alert but her body is worn out--she has grown old gracefully!

I have an only child, a 29 year old son, Josh, who has always been and will always be my "shepherdboy"...regardless!

I am finding writing to be more and more an integral part of my mid-life, so hopefully within the next year as my financial situation becomes stable once again, I will be able to publish a novel and perhaps a book of short stories. Some of these poems and stories can be viewed here and also at the Authors Den website listed below.

The picture here on my page with The Writing Forum depicts one of the loves of my life-a full moon at the ocean! Thanx, Marcia, for having this one just for me!!

My Website: http://www.thespiceroflife.com/

My Blog: www.myspace.com/javabeans203

My Space at Authors Den: http://www.authorsden.com/donnasmullis

PUBLICATION: The “Spicer” of Life, a Book of Inspirational Poetry.
Please click on the title above for ordering information.

Email: dmul1410@yahoo.com
 

To access my short stories here at The Writing Forum,
please click on the link in the navigation box below.

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Short Stories

Archives

POEMS - Page 1:
(click on the button in front of any title in the list below
to be linked directly to that poem’s location on the page)

 Sacrifice
 How Far?
 The Stirring
 Moorings
 There's Nothing To Lose
 My Sunshine!
 Letting Go
 The Adventure
 Oh, What A Difference...
 Until...
 Once Again
 Living on the Edge
 The Spicer Of Life
 Persevere
 On We Go...
 Be Thankful!
 A Journey
 Guard Your Heart
 It Matters Not
 Solitude
 What Is A Nurse?
 In His Time
 Only God Knows
 You Can Make It!
 Shall We Dance?
 Alone With God
 The Lighthouse
 Little Things
 Come Walk With Me
 His Plan

 

Sacrifice

'Deny one's self? Such sacrifice!'
He said in jest,'too great a price
For who should ask this of someone,
Who has it all when day is done?'

'Not me,' he said, 'I have no need,
To sacrifice, forego a deed
Of pleasure for myself or mine,
To say, Lord not my will, but thine!'

'Absurd! to think that He'd require,
A man like me to walk in mire
Renowned & polished, debonair!
No, sacrifice would not be fair!'

Yet in the midst of this rebut,
A sharp reminder, yes a cut-
Deep to the heart, right to the soul,
'The price it takes to make one whole!'

The One who loves the greatest still,
Denied himself on Calvary's hill
And if you know His life at all,you will
Be blessed to heed this call Sacrifice!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

How Far?

There was a time when she was well it seemed,
No problem was too great nor out of hand
Then He impressed upon her wildest dream,
How far would she give in and yet withstand?

How far? He asked, would she just step aside
And let Him do a work to bring great joy
The tension, hopeless feeling would subside,
And in its place His promise He'd employ.

See, far was never far when He was there,
Though time now seemed so relevant at best
There always was someone who came to share
The burden, bringing peace amid each test...

The distance between hope and great despair
Is likened to the blinking of an eye
One minute fame and fortune, not a care,
Then suddenly she whispered, let me die!

His smile again reminded, just how far,
Would she allow Him to take full control?
He took her by the hand, and crossed the bar
The distance that she needed for her soul!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

The Stirring

The stirring deep within the soul
Makes restless, sleepless nights
The will for sure has no control
As faith gives way to sights!

Wherein doth lie the answer deep,
To make this strain subside?
'I pray the Lord my soul to keep'
Seems but a childish chide!

Yet, truth be known, the great I Am,
The Ruler of us all
Allows this time, which is no sham,
For purpose 'mid His call!

Sheer comfort is but for a while,
The stirring needs must be
To forge us on another mile
Pursuing victory!

The stirring has a purpose grand,
Its gifts can't dormant lie
To move the soul to rich from bland
Must be a constant cry!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

Moorings

I can only imagine how the ship stool still,
There amidst the waves, helmsman at the wheel
Just to watch it sway, ropes secured & taut,
Yet it bravely stood, tho' it seemed for naught!

Somehow from within thoughts began to flow,
'Yes, you're like this ship more than you know,
For your moorings here keep you in one place,
And you have no clue what's beyond your space.'

As my mind reached out there the picture came,
The helmsman was me, and I bowed in shame
'What more can I do?' came the question sweet,
With my hands outstretched, I stood to my feet.

'Cut the ropes, He said,turn your moorings loose
There's no place for fear, do not act obtuse
With Me by your side, there's no limit, Dear,
What can come to pass if you'll only hear!'

Moorings aren't for those who will dare to be
Like the ship when it sets its sails for sea
Once within that realm you will have new sight,
For your freedom will make all the wrong things right!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

There's Nothing To Lose

There's nothing to lose when all has been lost,
There's nothing to count when there is no cost-
Life has new meaning when all becomes nil,
This only happens with death to self-will!

When does one comprehend loss is for best,
Or even that living for God is a test?
Not until pride is destroyed deep within,
It is the root that produces all sin!

Pride says there's no way to give up and lose,
Give up your life is a choice that you choose-
Yet giving up that which means most to you,
Produces a yield of something brand-new!

It takes one to higher ground than before,
It changes perspective, opens a door-
That never would be were it not for loss,
Yes, just ask the One who took up a cross!

There's so much to gain if willing you'll be,
To lose sight of self and things that you see-
Surely in losing you'll find that you win,
For God will make something of nothing again!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

My Sunshine!

"You are My Sunshine", goes the song
From many years gone by-
And tho' some days bring clouds along,
You brighten up my sky!

"You make me happy" everytime
I see your smiling face-
"You'll never know, dear" how sublime
Your words are, filled with grace!

My eyes reflect with each new glance
"How much I love you" still-
Perhaps one day you'll know, by chance,
Sunshine, I always will!

So "please don't take" these words today,
And misconstrue each line-
"My Sunshine" please don't go "away",
Each day just let love shine!

Yes, when our life is full and free,
The gray skies turn to blue-
So Sunshine, now perhaps you see,
The reason I love you!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

Letting Go

It seems there are times when life is so cool
But other times life can be very cruel-
Whichever the case, it's human, you see,
To do what we can to keep harmony!

We fix this and that, and put on a smile,
Yet knowing our hearts are sad all the while-
We pray and confess, believe beyond doubt,
That given some time God will work it out!

We fear that our faith may not see us through
And having done all, what else can we do?
God gives some relief and so we hold on,
Just waiting until the problem is gone!

Alas! from above, a voice that we know,
Speaks firmly and says, Don't hold just let go!'
For when we let go, we give God free reign
To work in our lives, removing the pain!

Accept letting go as part of God's plan,
Be real with ourselves, as only we can-
Solutions will come and then we will know,
The best thing that we could do was 'let go'!

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

The Adventure

It all began one moonlit night while talking with the Lord,
The passion in my heart and mind was centered on His Word.
His presence overwhelmed me as He whispered in my ear,
"Are you ready for adventure? If so, then have no fear."
You see, He knew deep down inside was passion on the wait
To walk with Him and trust His will, and not depend on fate.
He took me by the hand and said, "I will instruct and guide,
No matter where you come or go, I'll be there by your side."
Don't lose hope or be dismayed when those around you jeer,
They think your life is lived in jest so soon your end is near.
But as for them there is no faith nor evidence of fruit,
Adventure found within God's realm will be a hot pursuit!
So on we go, the Lord and I, adventure calls my heart,
And even when I may not see, He shows me where to start.
The end results will manifest all efforts we afford,
For one day soon this life will end and we will see the Lord.

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

Oh, What A Difference...

Oh, what a difference someone can make,
If given a chance, the chance they will take
Without fear or dread, yes faith is the key,
That opens the door so others might see!

Oh, what a difference just one life to live,
Seems but a moment and so much to give
So much to be while counting the cost,
So much to do before someone's lost!

Oh, what a difference no frown but a smile,
Willing to be a strong arm one more mile
Willing to share in the bad times and good,
Oh, what a difference-if only you would!

Oh, what a difference your life in His hand
He will control all you don't understand
See, He is waiting on you to stand tall,
Take up your cross, while heeding His call!

Oh, what a difference when yes to obey
You answer, instead of just walking away
Healing and wisdom so soon He'll impart,
Oh, what a difference, just give Him your heart!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

Until...

A song of old says 'Until then...'
Yes, until comes from way back when,
And doesn't stop 'til God says so
For until lets God's purpose flow!

Keep going, though transition seems
To be afar, in distant dreams
For change must come, yet disarray
Precedes the goal that God says may
Bring forth His light and future plan,
No will of God through will of man!
Until will break the yoke of sin,
To yield new hope and life within!
And until one stands face to face
With Him who saves us by His grace,
Can until be fulfilled complete,
No, until we bow at His feet...

So never cease to watch and pray,
For surely there will come a day
We'll understand it better when,
But as for now, it's until then...

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

Once Again

Once again the trials come to sway my faith and view,
Once again the doubts arise and life seems without clue
Even though the truth prevails and ultimately I know,
I'll walk the straight and narrow path, now which way do I go?

The night is dark and on this trail seems I am all alone,
Yet deep within my heart I know Your presence's never gone
But once again it seems the load is more than I can bear,
And then within the darkness You say, 'Cast on me your care'.

Once again I'm reassured this too shall pass away,
If somehow I will not depend on flesh as arm of stay
For in the midst of trials, doubts and loneliness I find,
Your faithfulness will bring to me the needed peace of mind!

So once again I lay myself prostrate before You now,
Seeking your forgiveness, tender mercies shown somehow
For greater is the need of You than is the need of me,
I lay it all down at Your feet again to be set free!

Once again let faith arise and bring about your peace,
For when your peace prevails all doubts and sorrows have to cease
You are the Great I AM and with You all things can be done,
So once again I walk in light, the light of Your dear Son!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

Living on the Edge

Living on the edge, you ever been there?

It's scary at best, a challenge to dare

Get out on a limb or walk in the dark,

Just trusting in time your ship will embark

Upon calmer seas and light will break through,

To prove once again God's faithful to you.

 

Not just anyone will live on the edge,

It may bring distress or create a wedge-

For when you decide you aren't close enough

To God, you will find the going gets rough!

 

But oh, what a joy, to walk the unknown,

To live on the edge where no light has shown-

To trust and believe that He will provide

All things for you life, for He is your guide!

 

No height is too high, no depth is too deep,

Don't limit yourself, just know He will keep

You under His wing, and show you each day

A wondrous supply He'll send forth your way!

Go live on the edge and keep your mind clear,

Abundant success is hovering near!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

The Spicer Of Life

Some say variety makes this life sweet,
Others think being alike is so neat
Whatever brings us to this point of view,
Let it be said that this one thing is true!

One thing is notable and I am sure,
The Spicer of Life will always endure
Here blah and humdrum just can't stand the test,
Spicer of Life will surpass all the rest!

The lighter side sees the reason for grief,
Knowing the Spicer of Life brings relief
For no matter what the season we're in,
With Spicer of Life we surely will win!

So look all you want in each avenue,
Somehow remember this truth about you
You will decide if your life's filled with woe,
You will decide down which road you will go!

The Spicer of Life is waiting each day,
With His arms outstretched and wanting to say,
'Come walk with Me and your life will be new,
There's joy unspeakable waiting for you!'

D. S. Mullis
Copyright ©2008

 

Persevere!
Written for LouAnn New, at her request!

Love, peace and joy! Our great God will employ,
For even in our trials, yes, all the devil's wiles,
Are but a passing fad, soon sorrow will be glad,
And all our hue and cry will vanish by and by!

We serve the One who stills the gales of life at will
He never will digress nor lose His sweet caress-For
Those who know this One will stand when day is done,
And shout the victory for all the world to see!

Don't ever lose your hope for then in life you grope,
As one who's in the dark, and knows he can't embark,
Upon his ship of dreams, for yielding to the schemes
Has made his spirit sad, which once was free and glad!

Yes, trials come and go, and just to let you know,
That once you pass this test a glimmer of the best
Will shine within your world, as faith again unfurls
And brings you to a place with His so matchless grace!

Love, joy and peace, for sure these do not cease,
And while you persevere, know He is standing near
With answers on the way, yes, even for this day,
And in a little while, you'll walk the last long mile!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright ©2008

 

On We Go...

There is no time for standing still,
There's much too much to do
Just forge ahead and climb that hill!
Adventure's within view!

For on we go another mile,
Although we know not where
Convenience isn't in this style
Of progress, so beware!

It's for the ones with made up minds,
For those who won't look back
Who'll trek the roads that have no signs,
Yet never suffer lack!

We'll press toward the mark and prize
That God says surely waits
And at each turn we'll find the wise
One bidding through the gates!

Yes, on we go, surrender all,
His steps will lead the way
As in our hearts we heed His call,
There'll be a brighter day!

D. S. Mullis
Copyright ©2008

 

Be Thankful!

I have a mother ninety-three
Who, everyday, still teaches me-
               Be thankful!

Yes, surely thankfulness is rare,
For nowadays it seems most care
Is focused on the person ME,
So not too many people see-
               Be thankful!

Feed the hungry, meet a need
For some poor soul astray-
Be thankful to forego a deed
That just might change their day!

It never hurts to be so kind
And strive to have a Christlike mind-
For showing forth this attribute
You manifest the Spirit's fruit-
               Be thankful!

Don't ever let a day go by,
That you don't hesitate to try
To show your world the reason why
               You're thankful!

D.S. Mullis
Copyright
© 2008

 

A Journey

This thing's a journey we call life,
Sometimes it's joy, sometimes it's strife-
Sometimes it's mountains oh so high,
But then it's valleys, where we cry!

God planned this journey for all men,
To bring us back to Him again-
That's why the valley's fixed between
The mountains high, to be unseen!

Yes, in the valley is where God
So many times will let us trod-
For in the valley He restores
The soul of those whom He adores!

Along this journey without doubt,
God teaches us what life's about-
For many great and noble men,
Have found their way to God again!

So make your journey be worthwhile,
And bring to all your world a smile-
For truly at this journey's end,
Be found as one known as God's friend!

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright
© 2008

 

Guard Your Heart

Even in the midst of menial chores,
We sense that our heart desires open doors-
For out of it come the issues of life,
And many of which we find will be rife!

Sometimes it behooves the wisest of men,
To hold up the shield again and again-
For even though sin begins in the mind,
It seeks open doors in the heart to find!

So comes this resolve to take extra care,
We must guard our heart or sin will be there-
It may not seem wrong, perhaps may not be,
But given some time the root makes a tree!

We must look ahead to conquer our foe,
For wars are not won unless we bestow-
Our all to the task of winning the race,
The ultimate goal is seeing God's face!

Now we make the choice if we will subdue,
This enemy of our heart and be true-
With quickness we fight & it won't be long,
By guarding our heart again we'll be strong!

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright
© 2008 

 

It Matters Not

It matters not where you have been,
It matters not at all
What matters is not where, but when
Will you accept the call?

God's blessed your life abundantly,
So many times you've failed
But you would rise with fervency,
To prove your faith prevailed!

It matters not what others say
Or even think of you
For in the midst God makes a way
To bring His will in view!

So set your face just like a flint,
And let His fire ignite
Within your soul a mighty glint,
That makes the darkness bright!

Your walk with God will then impart,
His life in such a way
There'll be no question where to start
Your call to serve each day!

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

Solitude

When I look into the starlit heavens,
It makes me wonder why God has given
Those twinkling objects such freedom among
The very footstool of Heaven's great throng!

Their beauty attracts the gazes of men
Through all kinds of scopes, imagining when
And how they were made, to light up the sky,
Not falling to earth so many ask, why?

Their purpose has yet to fully be known,
But one thing remains and that is they've shown
The power of God, He does all things right,
For on the fourth day, He made them as light!

So never grow tired of watching them shine,
Their twinkle might hold a message in time-
In "solitude", God may speak to the heart,
Revealing Himself, His will to impart!

Then just as the stars shine out in the night
Our God will allow this life to shine bright-
Reflecting His love so others might see
That "solitude" has a "reason to be"!

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

What Is A Nurse?

"What is a nurse?", the young child did ask,
"Where are they from and what is their task?"
The mother replied, "Just watch and you'll see,
They're from near and far, for you and for me!

A nurse has a heart to help people mend,
No matter the need, the nurse is a friend-
They do their job well and do it with pride,
Because of a call from God, deep inside!

Not just anyone can be a nurse, child,
It takes one who strives to be meek and mild-
To care for the one unkempt and unloved,
The nurse will display God's gift from above!

For nursing is God extended to man,
One not afraid, child, to reach forth a hand
To touch your hot brow and whisper a prayer,
That you might know God has you in His care!

So, what is a nurse? Perhaps you now know,
Angels of mercy God sent to bestow
Their ministry gifts each day that they live,
For all those in need, to them freely give!"

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

In His Time

God has a purpose for all of our lives,
A work must be done, beginning inside
The heart of each one, that we might find out
How "living by faith" is what life's about!

For some it takes months-and others it's years
For faith to arise and conquer our fears-
But we can be sure it's all in God's time,
Just as this poem has rhythm and rhyme!

Just as the ocean tide goes out and in,
Just as the blood of Christ cleanses our sin-
God has appointed a time just for you,
To change your perspective-broaden your view!

Faith comes by hearing-by hearing the Word,
Thru faith comes a voice we never have heard-
Faith gives you courage to walk the unknown,
To show forth a light you never have shown!

Don't be afraid to take off your mask,
Let Him be Lord is all He will ask-
Yes, in His time, friend, I hope you will see
A life that is full, a life that is free!

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright©2008

 

Only God Knows

Only God knows what you feel inside,
Only God knows the things that you hide-
Only God knows the fear that you face,
Only God knows your great need of grace!

The path of your life is taking a turn,
Get out of your box, let past bridges burn-
Allow faith to rise again in your heart,
For God placed it there, His will to impart!

Life is too short to have tunnel vision,
Give Him your all and fulfill your mission-
'Go ye into all the world' and plant seed,
Open your spiritual eyes and take heed!

Daily you'll meet those in need of God's care
And only God knows if someone will share-
The plan of salvation simple and true,
Only God knows if that one will be you!

Dare to be diff'rnt and show to your world,
What faith can produce when it is unfurled-
You'll rise to new heights and daily be free,
Only God knows just how great you can be!

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright©2008

 

You Can Make It!

Your life is in God's hands each day,
He's shaping it just now
And though He may seem far away,
He spins the wheel somehow!

For like the clay the Potter holds,
Your life is fragile still
Hard knocks in life will crack the mold,
In hopes to mar your will!

But you can make it, this I'm sure,
The Potter will repair
Your life in time and make it pure,
So cast on Him your care!

He'll take away the guilt and pain,
And mend your broken heart
That which seemed lost will be your gain,
You'll find a brand new start!

Yes, you can make it if you give,
The Potter all of you
Make Him the reason that you live,
And share His love so true!

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright©2008

 

Shall We Dance?

The music begins to play so soft,
And hand in hand they start to stroll-
She curtsies, he bows, as they do oft,
While in the background thunders roll.

Yes, 'Shall we dance'? seems apropos,
As trials once again prevail-
He takes her hand and off they go,
The dance brings calmness to her gale!

While dancing does she find release,
A freedom to her will and soul-
Amid the passion comes a peace,
That human feelings can't extol.

Her feet take flight to higher plain,
For now the dance seems quickly o'er-
Perhaps they'll do this once again,
Not here, but on some distant shore!

So when it seems the end is near,
And life won't offer one more chance,
Don't be surprised, with voice so clear,
He asks the question, 'Shall we dance'?

D. S. Mullis
Copyright
©

 

Alone With God

There's no other place that I'd rather be,
Than alone with God at night by the sea-
The sound of the waves brings a quiet still,
To my restless soul in search of God's will.

My life took a turn with uncertainty,
A strange kind of twist had happened to me-
'Abandon' was all the Lord seemed to say,
No clue as to what this word would defray.

For once long ago abandoned I was,
As but a mere child not knowing the cause-
Tho' too young to see or spiritually know,
That being alone with God helps you grow.

So being alone with God is a must,
For life is unsure, there's no one to trust-
Except our great God in Heaven above,
Who waits to bestow His gifts and His love!

The price may seem great it may cost you dear
But being alone with God draws you near-
To His heart it's there you'll find He is true
And He'll be the One to carry you through!

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

The Lighthouse

The sea is black, the waters rage, the ship is tossed about,
The helmsman cannot hold the wheel; this is the end, no doubt.
The shipmates talk among themselves and finally agree,
The time to call on God is now and humbly bow their knee.
So to the center of the ship they gather in a crowd,
And ask their faithful Captain if he'll lead a prayer aloud.
A sadder scene you'll never see, for all their hope is lost,
Down with the ship they'll bravely go, no matter what the cost.
But suddenly the helmsman shouts and says,"friends have no fear,
I see the Lighthouse, we are saved, have faith for land is near!"
And so it is with us today, we sail away from shore,
We think that all is well and life will go on as before.
Life's storms arise, the ship is tossed, and we lose sight of land,
Then suddenly we realize our life is out of hand.
Within ourselves we know there's nothing left for us to do,
Except to call on God and hope His Lighthouse will come thru
So just before we sink, we see our stalwart Lighthouse shine;
Jesus is our Lighthouse, and He's always right on time!

Donna S. Mullis
Copyright
©2008

 

Little Things

It's little things in life that mean so much,
Like a card or a call, even a touch
Ministers healing to someone in need.
Sharing God's love doesn't take a great deed!

It may be a song, it may be a smile
That brightens the day and makes it worthwhile.
We just never know who's waiting somewhere,
Needing to know that there's someone to care!

It's not just the poor who need to be told
That little things matter much more than gold,
For houses and riches don't fill the bill,
Like "do unto others" everyday will!

So don't be consumed by living too fast,
You might miss your moment, feeling aghast!
Questioning,"Where did that little thing go
That I was to do, to let my love show?"

Go do it today, and do it with pride,
No matter how small, you'll feel good inside!
If you'll be faithful in all that you do,
A crown of life will be waiting for you!

© Donna S. Mullis

 

Come Walk With Me

'Come, take my hand and walk with Me,
I'll bring to pass things you can't see
Your life is Mine, so let us go,
There's new dimensions yet to know!'

He spoke these words in voice so kind,
They brought to me such peace of mind
Why should I fear, He knows the way,
Assuredly He'll be my stay!

To walk with God and trust His care,
Is life that only few will dare
Allow to happen, for it seems
His ways are not always our dreams!

We want our cake and eat it too,
And boast about the things we do-
Yet, how about the sinner still?
Does he inflict upon our will?

We must submit and let our God,
Direct the paths that we now trod
With hand in hand let's walk and sing,
While watching our God do great things!

© Donna S. Mullis

 

His Plan

'You never seem to mind when trials come,'
She smiled and asked, 'Why should I be afraid?'
The One who walks with me will keep me brave,
He answered, 'Yes and lead you safely home.'

'You never turn your smiles into a frown,'
She spoke with softness, 'That's because of He
Who was so happy and yes, so carefree,
Took up a cross that I might wear a crown!'

'You always think beyond yourself each day,'
She nodded, 'Yes, He showed me how to live,
By His example I know how to give...
For servanthood is truly God's own way!'

'You seem to find such joy in daily life,'
'For sure, 'she answered, 'Joy comes from above
And joy is evidence of His great love,
The love that conquers fear and doubt and strife!

'You seem to know much more than mortal man,
Possessing attributes that do impart
A change has come deep down within your heart
'Oh yes, indeed, the purpose of His plan!'

© Donna S. Mullis

 

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