Shelly’s car after the accident

Note: Shelly wrote this on October 9th.

On Wednesday, September 26, I had a really bad car accident.  I was T boned, which means someone hit me right in my drivers side. I remember nothing of being hit, being in the ambulance or having a head CT scan.

My first memory after the accident was of seeing my daughter’s beautiful face and not knowing where I was.

As I lie here in my hospital bed with three broken ribs, a pelvis broken in two places, a broken ankle and a concussion it occurs to me how much I have used the Lefkoe Freedom Process over the course of the last few days.

It has become largely automatic, but every once in awhile I fall into the pity pot.  

Below are a few of the times I’ve used it since the accident:

Event: Car accident

Meaning:  This is terrible.

Alternative interpretations: I’m alive and can still walk and think and the person who hit me is ok.  

I can see now that the accident has no inherent meaning and doing the exercise changed my state from self-pity to gratitude.  

Here’s another one:

Experience: I’m not able to get out of bed.  

Meaning: It’s bad that I can’t get out of bed.  

The fact that I’ve been unable to get out of bed is hard but it can also be a blessing because I have health care and am able to rest and get the care I need.

Experience: High levels of pain.

Meaning: It’s terrible to have this pain.

Alternative interpretations: I’m so blessed to have survived the accident.  I could have been a paraplegic or dead. And it’s fortunate that I have access to such great medical care.

The fact that I have pain is uncomfortable but it doesn’t mean it will never go away, or that I have to suffer.  There are options available to deal with the pain such as meditation, visualization and drugs.

Event: My daughter Blake lives in Hawaii and other family members also live thousands of miles away.

Meaning: Poor me.  I won’t get the care and love I need to heal.  

Alternative interpretations: I have my women’s group who are like family and friends who have totally stepped up.  I am blessed.

And my last one:

Event: I’m unable to concentrate for an entire hour so I am not doing sessions with clients.

Meaning: The business will suffer. My clients will suffer.  This is terrible.

Alternative interpretations:  Rodney has stepped up as well as my two best friends.  Including one that I certified ten years ago who offered to do sessions for me.  So my clients and business don’t have to suffer.

I am in no way saying that this is a pleasant experience but using the LFP has made it much easier to get through this.  There are moments where I actually do feel like the most blessed person in the world.

Recently, we had someone write in telling us that the Lefkoe Freedom Process can’t help anyone.  He wrote that when good things happen you feel good and when bad things happen you feel bad.

That’s true for most people much of the time.

But “bad” events don’t have to lead to a downward spiral.  It’s possible to have “negative” events feel much less bad than they do now.  And after we dissolve meaning, it’s more likely that we will grow from our challenging experiences.

To try the Lefkoe Freedom Process, you can use the instructions found here.

Thanks for reading.  And please leave me a comment.

96 Comments

  1. Jennifer January 7, 2021 at 7:40 am - Reply

    Thank you for reminding people of how much we have to be grateful. You are inspiring me to be happy and content.

  2. Heather September 23, 2020 at 5:38 am - Reply

    I am so inspired by your story. I am now grateful and won’t downslide into further darkness, I am alive, healthy and financially secure. Life doesn’t get better than that. Thank you.

    • Shelly Lefkoe September 30, 2020 at 3:05 pm - Reply

      Heather, I am so inspired. Thank you so much for sharing this with me.

  3. Maura September 22, 2020 at 12:20 pm - Reply

    I tried this and it totally worked. I can’t imagine what you’ve been through, I don’t think I could have been as strong. You are right, life is a miracle and we should live life to the fullest. I pray that you have recovered and doing well. Thank you for sharing your story, it really helped me get through a tough time.

    • Shelly Lefkoe September 30, 2020 at 3:25 pm - Reply

      Thanks Maura. I so appreciate your kind words!

  4. Colleen September 22, 2020 at 10:50 am - Reply

    Thanks Shelly! Your beautiful spirit shines through.

  5. Cheryl September 19, 2020 at 6:25 am - Reply

    Your post really helped me through a tough time. I was feeling sorry for myself and your post really turned it around for me. I try my best to remember how special life really is and to be grateful for all the small things in life. It has made a world of difference and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

  6. askanythings July 28, 2020 at 5:15 am - Reply

    Thanks Shelly Lefkoe for the great article.You can also read the Kia sonet specifications,price and more details from here :-https://www.askanythings.com/2020/07/2020-kia-sonet-reviewspricespecificatio.html

  7. Annette Hart October 28, 2018 at 6:39 pm - Reply

    Hi Shelly. Sending you healing energy & loving supportive thoughts. This post is very insightful, thank-you for sharing how the Lefkoe methods have worked for you during this time. Your passion for life and helping others truly inspires me. I am so grateful your recovery is progressing well and have just booked a session :o)

  8. Juan October 28, 2018 at 5:33 pm - Reply

    Greetings Shelly,

    I’m so glad you’re on your way to recovery. If I may, I want to comment on:

    “Recently, we had someone write in telling us that the Lefkoe Freedom Process can’t help anyone. He wrote that when good things happen you feel good and when bad things happen you feel bad.”

    In my experience, if we as human beings at least do not create any interpretation of any situation, you can at least create clarity of mind and emotions and from that clarity one can choose to make a more “Conscious” interpretation. There may be pain or physical discomfort, but in clarity and sharpness of mind there is no suffering. This is something that the Lefkoe Method can assist people in creating for sure.

    I know for women in particular it is very important to create meaning to express thought and emotion because that is what helps them create stronger bonds which helps to create Oxytocin (the feel good/bonding chemical) and Estrogen (the female hormone) in the body which leads to greater opportunities to experience happiness.

    However for men it’s actually a little different and it is better for them to maintain clarity and sharpness of mind without expressing, in particular, negative thoughts and emotions because clarity of mind and emotions allows men to reproduce optimum levels of Testosterone in their male physics which leads to greater levels of well being for men.

    Our thoughts based on our interpretations and behavior can definitely have a chemical effect on the way we feel and the way the body can regenerate and rejuvenate even at the cellular level. However this does take some skill and work to learn to do this effectively. The Lefkoe Method definitely can help one in this process but it takes work. Like the quote mentioned earlier if you feel good only when good things happen, and you feel bad when bad things happen then you are enslaved to what happens to you. This is not Freedom, this is Slavery. If one wants Freedom then he or she must be willing work and do the right things in order for the right things to happen.

    I’m sending you energy and vibes for a strong and speedy recovery Shelly.

    Namaskar,
    -Juan A

  9. Pamela Briggs October 25, 2018 at 8:53 pm - Reply

    Get well soon! I believe in miracles and this is proof. I’m glad you are ok. Many more blessing to you and your business.

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 26, 2018 at 9:08 am - Reply

      thank you so much Pamela.
      Love, Shelly

  10. Lleslle Schroeder October 24, 2018 at 10:46 am - Reply

    Hi, Shelly!

    I am so glad to hear that you are recovering well from the car accident and your spirit is still the same sweet, helpful, fun Shelly spirit we know and love!

    In this post, you reminded me how the LFP can be practically used to help someone, in what are seemingly awful circumstances, shift the meaning of the circumstance to either be neutral (i.e. remembering events have no meaning) or more positive (to find a different meaning that is more empowering).

    Bless you, Shelly, for continuing to love and care for us and to spread the practical lessons that LFP has to offer.

    Much love to you!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 24, 2018 at 8:31 pm - Reply

      Hello my sweet Lleslle,
      It’s so great to hear from you! I love and miss you. Thanks for the sweet words.

      • Lleslle October 30, 2018 at 4:29 pm - Reply

        Big hugs and love you too, Shelly! <3 :D

  11. Michelle Lowbeer October 24, 2018 at 3:09 am - Reply

    Dear Shelly, wow… you are so amazing. Even in the midst of a traumatic incident you manage to use your own teachings, and share this as an example to reach out and help others.

    I love you and send you best wishes for a full, quick and complete recovery. ♥

    • Michael February 6, 2020 at 11:22 pm - Reply

      Hi

  12. Katleen October 22, 2018 at 6:40 am - Reply

    Oh Shelly, thank you so much for this post! You truly express the embodiment of your teachings. Lots of love and a big coming your way xxx

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 23, 2018 at 8:36 am - Reply

      Thanks Katleen. Lots of love back.

  13. Javi October 21, 2018 at 2:38 pm - Reply

    Great to know you already are much better, Shelly!!!
    Anyway, go slowly and take care of yourself.

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 23, 2018 at 8:36 am - Reply

      Thanks Javi. I will.

  14. Elena October 21, 2018 at 4:51 am - Reply

    So glad you are getting better! I only had one sessr with you and our second was planned the day after your accident…
    But i prayed for you and cant wait for you to heal! You helped me a lot and you are an inspiration! Life is simple with your method. Thanks and take care of yourself!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 21, 2018 at 8:33 am - Reply

      Hi Elena, Thanks for you prayers. They mean the world to me. I’m going to start back with sessions this week. Go to bookshelly.com and let’s do one. I want your life to be simple ;)

  15. Austine USHIE October 21, 2018 at 4:07 am - Reply

    Thank God for Ur for being a PRACTICAL woman – practising what you are teaching.
    I personally learned a lot from Ur experience shared above.

    “He wrote that when good things happen you feel good and when bad things happen you feel bad.”

    I disagree with the above statement. By the Grace of God I have been practising the LEFKOE Method as a beginner & is been working for me even in a BAD & UNPLEASANT situation.

    From my experience, I have come to realise that, FEELING GOOD OR BAD in any situation is a PERSONAL CHOICE.

    Thank you Ma for continuing the good work of Mr. Lefkoe. I pray God Almighty to completely make you whole in Jesus Name!

    Am still studying the Lefkoe method & working towards getting your book on Recreating Your Mind…! And other materials.

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 21, 2018 at 8:35 am - Reply

      Hi Austine. This is wonderful news! You do not have to be at the effect of your circumstances. We are not victims. We are powerful beyond all measure. Thank you for using our work to make your life better. Morty is smiling down from heaven.

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 23, 2018 at 8:38 am - Reply

      Thank you Austine. I am so happy that you do not live like a victim and are using our work to empower yourself. Morty is smiling down from heaven and I am happy. Lots of love.

  16. Suzanne October 20, 2018 at 11:04 pm - Reply

    Dear Shelly, you are such an inspiration using the Lefkoe processes now to help reduce and prevent suffering. I was shocked to hear about your accident and it reminds me how fragile the material world is. We identify with our sense of individual self/body when actually we are all connected in consciousness. 💕❤️

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 21, 2018 at 8:36 am - Reply

      Thanks Suzanne. I’m grateful that you are inspired. That’s what my life is about so thanks for letting me do my job. With love,

  17. Patty October 20, 2018 at 10:40 am - Reply

    My dear Shelly – I was so sad to hear the news of your accident. Grateful that you are still here with us and I look forward to chatting very soon. Wishing you a speedy recovery! Much ❤️

    Patty Bassine

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 20, 2018 at 5:10 pm - Reply

      Thanks my precious Patty. Looking forward to chatting soon too. I love you

  18. Martin Curran October 20, 2018 at 8:49 am - Reply

    Wow, that image. Sending you healing vibes. What a remarkable individual you are. Thank you for posting your experiences. It’s a timely reminder of just how effective the Lefkoe Freedom Process can be when it becomes a part of you, as it clearly is with you. Very impressive Shelly. Someone was looking out for you too, that’s for sure. Keep healing, and all the very best to you, and to everyone on the good ship Lefkoe!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 20, 2018 at 5:10 pm - Reply

      Hi Martin, So wonderful to hear from you. Someone is definitely watching out for me. No question! Sending you love.

  19. Ole October 20, 2018 at 8:11 am - Reply

    Hi Shelly! Best get well wishes from me. So glad to hear you are okey! Looking forward to see you up and in action again :)

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 20, 2018 at 4:57 pm - Reply

      Thanks Ole. So great to hear from you!

  20. Sheena October 20, 2018 at 7:15 am - Reply

    I’m sure a special angel was looking out for out. Be Well! Speedy Recovery! xx

    • Sheena October 20, 2018 at 7:16 am - Reply

      looking out for you..opps above
      .

  21. Taye Bela Corby October 20, 2018 at 2:35 am - Reply

    Holding hands in your transformative circle of love where all is well and everything is possible. Visualizing complete and permanent healing. Amplifying your influence even further than before…Lovin you, Taye xo

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 20, 2018 at 7:50 am - Reply

      Hi Sheena. Lots of them I 100% certain! Thanks for caring

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 20, 2018 at 7:51 am - Reply

      I love you my friend. To the moon and back.

  22. Roo October 19, 2018 at 10:35 pm - Reply

    Simply sending you love! I know many many many of us that you have affected so deeply pray for you to return to health and the work you love.

  23. Rahla Kahn October 19, 2018 at 6:56 pm - Reply

    Shelley… Thank you for the ultimate Lefkoe Reminder… Potent, Powerful,Practical❗️
    A change in perspective and a gentle yet firm approach to inviting in another possible interpretation is a liberating dance to emotional freedom… especially when our load weighs us down…and as is usual you have found a way to include and inspire us by telling your story… authentic real-ness even in the face of a traumatic accident… Thank You again for giving us a chance to change… our minds…

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 10:06 pm - Reply

      Rahla, I was so touched by your words my friend. Thank you for touching my heart. Sending love to you.

  24. Joanne Jones October 19, 2018 at 5:57 pm - Reply

    Thank God you are okay, Shelly. I can so relate. Back in 2005, I was hit by a SUV in New Haven. I was a pedestrian in the crosswalk, but the light changed and the SUV hit me. Hit and run! I was on my way to an appointment and had a large bag filled with files that acted as an airbag and protected me from any serious injuries. Although air borne, my only injuries were a concussion, some eye trauma, and a bad knee. I was and still am so grateful for my life since that day. I still carry the completely crushed lipstick cases that were in that bag to remind me how very lucky I was and am. No doubt, you will be fine, with all the love that surrounds you and all you give. Prayers, good thoughts, and love are being sent to you! Joanne

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 6:03 pm - Reply

      Thanks Joanne. It’s so great to hear from you. I too will always remember how lucky I was. Please send love to the whole family for me.

  25. Paul K October 19, 2018 at 5:32 pm - Reply

    While this may require a postponement to any “Cosmo drinking date”, I’m very glad you’re alive and in good spirits! Morty would be (is) very proud of you. Love, Paul

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 6:05 pm - Reply

      Ah. Do I get a raincheck? It’s been awhile since we’ve had a cosmo date! I will be ready soon. love you.

  26. Dan Hodges October 19, 2018 at 4:47 pm - Reply

    So good to hear from you! Sending love your way as you work through the recovery process.Grateful to know you!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 6:03 pm - Reply

      Thanks Dan. Sending love back

  27. susan thayer October 19, 2018 at 1:35 pm - Reply

    dear shelly: thanks for surviving in a graceous way. from my experience, it is easy to fall into a pity party. it takes guts and determination to believe other uplifting ways are possible. you have shared yours with us and it has been appreciated. take care (only a reminder), susan

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 6:04 pm - Reply

      Thanks Susan. Much love,

  28. Elise October 19, 2018 at 1:07 pm - Reply

    Wow! So happy you’re ok! Just recently discovered you and enjoy your work. Sending prayers for healing!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 6:06 pm - Reply

      Thanks Elise. Hope you continue on with our work. Love, Shelly

  29. Aaron B October 19, 2018 at 12:47 pm - Reply

    You need a good chiropractor ;)
    Love ya Shelly and enjoy the boredom!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 1:03 pm - Reply

      You are such a character. So if I need a chiropractor are you on the way? Can you adjust a broken pelvis?
      Broken ribs? Love you nutcase.

  30. Erick October 19, 2018 at 12:38 pm - Reply

    Hi Shelly,

    Your choice of transforming your meanings to create the reality you desire is wonderful. I’ve used the Lefkoe process with much success.

    The huge change and benefit that I have received resulted from committing and deciding that the fundamental meaning for my life and business is that “Everything is always working out for me in the best ways”

    This is my new default and I put myself in position of observer to witness how it all works out.

    I simply decide and it is so.

    Enjoy!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 1:04 pm - Reply

      Morty is smiling down from heaven! Thanks Erick

  31. Vahan October 19, 2018 at 10:39 am - Reply

    So like you, to continue to find a way to help others and give value, even under these extreme conditions. Please get well soon, we need you!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 1:04 pm - Reply

      Awwww I love you to bits.

  32. Peter October 19, 2018 at 9:59 am - Reply

    Shelly, so glad you’re doing okay considering how much worse things could have been.

    Please look into science of lymphology. There’s a book by Dr. Samuel West on the subject (The Golden Seven Plus One). There are several ways to simply and easily activate your lymphatic system (i.e. deep diaphragmatic breathing, stroking the area with your hands, etc). This will pull the trapped blood proteins and dead cells from the injured areas and get fresh glucose and oxygen into the sites to dramatically accelerate healing and greatly reduce or eliminate the pain. And I do mean both dramatically and greatly. Pain is always caused by a lack of oxygen/inflammation at the cellular level and activating the lymphatic system will very quickly reduce or completely eliminate the pain. I use it all the time whenever I do something dumb like slam my hand or foot into something or get cut, bruised, etc… and it’s miraculous how effective it is.

    Thanks for being an inspiration and here’s to your speedy recovering!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 10:13 am - Reply

      Thanks Peter. I’ll look into it.

  33. Alison Flawn October 19, 2018 at 9:50 am - Reply

    Dear Shelley, I am so sorry to hear about your horrible accident. I am completely bowled over by your ability to turn it around to something positive. Your openness and honesty is inspiring and has made me determined to stick at the ML
    Method. I send you lots of love and positive thoughts.

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 9:51 am - Reply

      Thanks Alison. So beyond grateful to make a difference from this bed :)

  34. Christina October 19, 2018 at 9:47 am - Reply

    Pretty Bad Ass to be an inspiration from a hospital bed!
    Sending your tender body ❤️

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 9:51 am - Reply

      That really touched me and made me laugh. Thanks Christina. What is your last name?

  35. Gracie October 19, 2018 at 9:43 am - Reply

    Loves and healing and all the virtual hugs to you, my sweet Shelly. <3 So sad you have to walk through this, and so grateful that you are sharing your process for the good of everyone (not that I ever thought you wouldn't). Glad you are resting and healing.

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 9:46 am - Reply

      Hopping through :) Thanks for all your love Gracie. Needless to say I love you too.

  36. Marion Claire October 19, 2018 at 8:35 am - Reply

    Hooray for you, Shelly, for showing such grace under pressure. Your positive attitude can’t help but inspire the rest of us, not just to renew our faith in the LFP, but to be reassured that no matter how difficult our current situation, there really is a brighter day waiting for us if we can only remember to look for it and grab it with both hands. Wishing you a speedy return to good health and productivity. You’re a terrific role model. Pat yourself on the back 5 times and say, “I deserve it!”, because you do!!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 9:47 am - Reply

      Thanks Marion. Sending all of my love.

  37. Ruth October 19, 2018 at 8:26 am - Reply

    It’s so great that you have the process to help you through this. Just shows how much meaning we automatically put to events. I did this too when I was laid up in the hospital. Get better, I know you are surrounded by wonderful friends.
    Lots of love
    Roomie

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:31 am - Reply

      thanks Roomie. I love you

  38. Tanja Dehne October 19, 2018 at 7:28 am - Reply

    Wishing you a speedy recovery! You have been in my thoughts and it was so wonderful to read your post this morning!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:09 am - Reply

      thank you Tanja

  39. Lorraine Salvo October 19, 2018 at 7:17 am - Reply

    Hang in there Shelley! We’ll all be here for you when you are ready. Just focus on getting better.

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:10 am - Reply

      Thanks Lorraine. Sending love.

  40. Molly Byock October 19, 2018 at 7:09 am - Reply

    I’m so sorry you experienced this. I’m so proud of you for walking your talk and applying the method to your life! May you continue to shift/choose the thoughts/beliefs that heal your body/mind! I love you Shelly!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:10 am - Reply

      Thanks Molls

  41. Lisa Cavender October 19, 2018 at 6:40 am - Reply

    So glad to see this post and that you are healing. Sending much love and thoughts for a speedy and easy recovery. xo

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:10 am - Reply

      thanks Lisa

  42. Lisa Cavender October 19, 2018 at 6:39 am - Reply

    Sending much love and healing your way.

  43. Essien October 19, 2018 at 6:14 am - Reply

    Get well soon Shelly.
    May our Lord Jesus see you through.
    Your interpretation of the event is a guide to me.
    God bless
    -Essien S.
    Nigeria

  44. Anna Bååth October 19, 2018 at 6:12 am - Reply

    Dear Shelly, it’s amazing that you can use the Lefkoe tools at this moment. I send you lots of love and energy and hope your body is healing well. (And use the chance to read good books and do other things then help clients. ;-))

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:09 am - Reply

      OMG I miss you!!!!! Let’s talk soon.

  45. Rahim Azizzi October 19, 2018 at 3:15 am - Reply

    I’ve followed this blog for a couple of years now, but this is my first time commenting. I appreciate your candor, and ability to seek the positive in not so good situations. Life can deal some unfair hands, but we have to try the see the positive, no matter how difficult that may be. G-d speed on your recovery.

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:11 am - Reply

      Thanks you Rahim.

  46. Louise Grenfell October 19, 2018 at 3:15 am - Reply

    Hi Shelley,

    I love the way you are choosing to use solution thinking and talking, and the Lefkoe method to empower yourself as much as possible, despite the seriousness of your situation. This is truly uplifting and inspiring.

    Thank you for your strength of vulnerability and you never give up attitude.

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:11 am - Reply

      Thanks Louise. That means a lot.

  47. Naomi October 19, 2018 at 2:42 am - Reply

    Keep healing, Shelley. This is a great way to show us all the practical use of the Lefkoe method. It shows how good it is. You’re helping now too. Thank you.

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:11 am - Reply

      Thank you Naomi

  48. Barbara and Yusuf October 19, 2018 at 2:41 am - Reply

    Dear Shelly, we are so sorry to hear about your accident. It is comforting to see and read that you continue to heal from this horrific experience. We are thousands of miles away, but send you all the care and love that fills our hearts for you. Much love!

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:12 am - Reply

      I love you both so much! Miss you too

  49. Hugh October 19, 2018 at 2:27 am - Reply

    Get well soon Shelley :)

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:12 am - Reply

      thanks Hugh

  50. Jane October 19, 2018 at 2:15 am - Reply

    Lovely post Shelley and though I’m sure you’d’ve preferred to avoid it, it is a great example of your process working in real life (practising what you preach=integrity). You’re a true survivor and I’m thrilled you’re still with us. All you need to do over this period is be your own best friend (she’d tell you to relax, love yourself and be patient with the healing process) and even though we don’t really know each other, you have added value to my life, thanks

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:13 am - Reply

      Thank you Jane. I’m so grateful that I’ve added value to life. That’s what my life is about.

  51. Kristen October 19, 2018 at 2:11 am - Reply

    What an amazing gift this technique is to you right now. Continue to heal. ❤️

    • Shelly Lefkoe October 19, 2018 at 8:13 am - Reply

      Thanks Kristen.

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