Looking Back

This week, I’m preparing mentally and physically to spend some time in reviewing tasks and objectives while looking back at the various things that I had set out to accomplish in 2025.

Last week, I wrote about limitations, and you can consider today’s topic a deeper dive into that specific word.

On a recent drive to Birmingham this past Thursday, while driving up I-65, I witnessed a license plate that read MKDREAM.  The car was a Pink Cadillac, and yes, the letters MK stood for Mary Kay.

I immediately thought to myself: “What does it take to get a Pink Cadillac from Mary Kay?”

“Approximately 1.5% of Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants reach the status of Independent Sales Director. Approximately 10% of Mary Kay Independent Sales Directors earn the use of the iconic Pink Cadillac.”

Mary Kay Career Car Program

The Mary Kay Pink Cadillac just made a shocking turn

As I rode behind it for several miles, I said internally, The driver is living their dream.

It was a reality that the driver of the car was also where they wanted to be today, based on the age and model of the Pink Cadillac from Mary Kay.

The question needing an answer is, are you where you expected you to be in 2025?

Did you meet the goals you envisioned that you wanted to accomplish this year?

How focused were you in accomplishing those goals?

It’s that question that I will be asking myself in doing my review of 2025.

One constant thing is that each of us has the same 24 hours in a day to accomplish what we need to accomplish, except some are better focused on getting the job done.

I’m reminded of two books I’ve read many times over, which are “A Sense of Urgency and Leading Change by John Kotter.”

Within Leading Change, there is also an 8 Step process which I have added a link to download the 8 Step E-Book.  I have no ties to John Kotter except being an avid reader of his books.

The 8-Step Process for Leading Change | Dr. John Kotter

For years and still today, I remain a subscriber to his newsletters.

I subscribe to Dr. John Kotter’s newsletters because I consider him a thought leader, and every book that I have read by him has continued to make a difference in my life.

As I continue to be inspired by various thought leaders who are also shaping my faith, business, and life, I can’t forget about the ones in my circle of concern and circle of influence that Stephen R. Covey talks about as well.

“Rooted in proactive psychology and popularized by Stephen R. Covey, it distinguishes between what we care about (the Circle of Concern) and what we can directly influence.” “You cannot always control what goes on outside, but you can always control what goes on inside.”

Take a moment to watch the video that supports this conversation.

The Circle of Influence—Focus Here and Watch Your Problems Dissolve | Stephen Covey Principles HQ

Therefore, we must all try and become effective at what we are trying to accomplish.

Therefore, this year, I’m grateful for those in my circle of influence who continue to pour into me.

It’s a matter of being proactive.

“Looking back, we see with great clarity, and what once appeared as difficulties now reveal themselves as blessings.”  Dan Millman

“You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards.”  Steve Jobs

This week, I challenge you to look back and think mentally and physically about all the various things that you had set out to accomplish in 2025, and ask the question: “Did you come close to doing what you expected to accomplish?”

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/looking-back/

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How Motivational Speakers in Huntsville, AL Drive Growth and Breakthrough Results

At the heart of every thriving organization lies a spark — a catalyst that moves teams from routine to remarkable. That spark often comes from the right speaker, delivering the right message at the right moment. As a provider of Motivational Speakers in Huntsville, AL, we understand that mindset, leadership, and emotional resonance can transform an event into a turning point for companies, schools, nonprofits, and communities.

Why Choosing the Right Speaker Matters

Many organizations plan events, conferences, or retreats hoping for a “nice talk” — but the difference between a forgettable presentation and one that triggers real change is profound. A skilled motivational speaker can ignite renewed enthusiasm, encourage collaboration, and help individuals rediscover their purpose. With tailored talks rather than generic speeches, your audience leaves not only inspired, but equipped with actionable takeaways.

This is especially true when you engage with professional Motivational Speakers in Huntsville, AL who bring proven expertise, real-world experience, and deep understanding of local and organizational culture. Their relatable stories — often grounded in overcoming adversity, leadership under pressure, and teamwork — make the impact immediate and personal. When attendees see someone who understands their context delivering messages rooted in authenticity, the result often goes beyond applause — it becomes a shift in perspective.

Driving Organizational Growth Through Motivation

Boosting Morale and Engagement

In many workplaces, motivation wanes over time — deadlines pile up, stress grows, and performance can plateau. Bringing in a motivational speaker gives employees a mental reset. A powerful address — focused on resilience, purpose, and growth — can rekindle energy, hope, and drive. People leave with renewed energy, ready to contribute more meaningfully to their teams and goals.

Fostering Leadership and Teamwork

Whether you represent a corporate team, a nonprofit board, or a local organization, strong leadership and collaboration are key to success. Experienced Motivational Speakers in Huntsville, AL shine when they tailor their talks to emphasize leadership development, accountability, communication, and trust-building. When individuals embrace these values, the whole organization moves toward more cohesive performance and better results.

Aligning Vision and Goals

Organizations often struggle not because of lack of talent, but because people aren’t aligned around a shared vision. A well-delivered motivational session can crystallize that vision, helping team members understand not just what they do, but why it matters. This clarity fosters purpose-driven work — and that purpose fuels long-term growth, innovation, and commitment.

Encouraging Growth Mindset and Resilience

Change, uncertainty, and pressure are constant across industries. Motivational speakers adept at addressing challenges — drawing from real life, from military background, entrepreneurship, or personal hardship — help audiences build resilience. When your team learns to view setbacks as growth opportunities and challenges as stepping stones, they become more adaptive, innovative, and forward-focused.

Why Our Speakers Stand Out

As a provider of Motivational Speakers in Huntsville, AL, we take pride in offering speakers whose backgrounds are diverse, credible, and impactful. Many bring veteran leadership experience, corporate management expertise, or years of coaching and mentoring. They don’t just speak — they connect.

• We invest time to understand your organization, its culture, its challenges, and its aspirations. That allows us to match you with the speaker whose style and message will resonate most effectively.
• Our speakers are not only motivational, but practical — they deliver tools, frameworks, and real-life strategies your team can implement right away.
• From small leadership workshops to large-scale conferences, we handle the logistics so you can focus on the outcome: engagement, transformation, and sustainable progress.

What Change Looks Like After an Event

Organizations that engage with motivational speaking often report: renewed energy, clearer focus, stronger team cohesion, and a surge in productivity — especially in the weeks following the event. Individuals feel more confident to take on challenges, lead initiatives, and support one another. Departments communicate better. Goals feel more tangible. The culture becomes more positive, growth-oriented, and aligned.

This shift is not superficial. It influences how people approach their work, treat coworkers, and envision success. Over time, that adds up — improved performance, better retention, stronger organizational identity, and measurable progress toward objectives.

How to Get Started

If you are seeking breakthrough results — whether for a corporate event, a nonprofit gathering, or a community workshop — consider bringing in experienced speakers who know how to engage, challenge, and motivate. Tell us about your audience, your goals, and your desired outcomes. We will recommend the right speaker, craft a tailored message, and coordinate everything to make the experience seamless.

Let your next event be more than a moment. Let it be the start of transformation. With focused, passionate leadership, your audience can shift mindset, build resilience, and unlock the growth your organization deserves.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthought.wordpress.com/2025/12/03/how-motivational-speakers-in-huntsville-al-drive-growth-and-breakthrough-results/

 

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Excellence

Today, as many prepare for the upcoming Thanksgiving Weekend, my thoughts are tied to excellence.

There are several areas or things on my mind tied to excellence.  Some of them for starters are coffee, dress code, behavior, attitude, appearance, and taste.

In addition, it seems that sometimes when I visit different restaurants, excellence is deemed by various factors.

The food, the working conditions, how many hours a person has already been on the job, the cooks in the kitchen getting orders out, correctly mind you, or even the service you receive once you walk through the door.

I have seen the changes over the years, even when you walk in, how people are greeted with an acknowledgement and a smile.

Knowing the many meals that I have personally prepared over the years, I took time to ensure excellence was incorporated into the meals.

We look for vegetables that are of excellent quality.

We look for brand names like “Butterball” in selecting the Turkey we will cook.

We look for everything that will make it special, even the decorations.

We even prepare the next generation to show them what excellence looks like, so that when they become of age, they can host a special dinner.

Not to mention that this weekend, manhy will look for excellent deals for those who are preparing for Black Friday and the start of Christmas Shopping.

Although the word “Excellence” may not be at the top of the list of words you may choose, subconsciously, it’s a possibility that you are having those thoughts today.

As a Soldier, I can remember while I was in the Military, the Dining Halls or Dining Facilities taking extra care to provide an excellent meal for Soldiers and their families.

Those days still resonate with me both as one who not only helped serve during Thanksgiving but also having the privilege of receiving an excellent meal.

We also know that some families will be on their best behavior this week in hosting guests.  Depending on your environment there will always be some form of excellence, and our desire to please our company.

As the year begins to slowly come to an end, the excellence we have created will show up in everything we do.

The keyword or takeaway is “created.”  In creating excellence, we must all work at it and decide how we want to excellence to become part of our lives.

Those who decide to take shortcuts in the preparation of food and attention to detail will reflect on whether they made the right choice.

On this day, excellence is up to all of us to decide how we want the outcome to be represented.

It’s my prayer that each of you has an excellent Thanksgiving and no regrets.

“If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception; it is a prevailing attitude.”   Colin L. Powell

Today, I challenge you to think about the quote from the late General Colin L. Powell. What habits in the little things are you working on to ensure excellence is not an exception, and it is a prevailing attitude for you?

If you were not aware, Colin Luther Powell was an American Army general, diplomat, and statesman who was the 65th United States Secretary of State from 2001 to 2005.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/excellence/

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Interruptions

Today, my thoughts stem from listening to a recent homily this past weekend and reflecting on the fact that life is short.

Many times, in life, our train of thought gets interrupted by not being mindful of our current situation, or we are distracted and frustrated about something that has happened to us.

On Saturday evening, I learned of the recent death of a Parishioner who passed away after seeing him at Mass the previous week.

Ironically, I’m also celebrating a heavenly anniversary this past week by celebrating the life of my father, who died five years ago on November 11, 2020, at the age of 93 years old.

When the Pastor spoke about interruptions, all kinds of thoughts flooded my mind.

One thought was hours before Mass this weekend, members of the Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary were assembled for a meeting with the Bishop of the Birmingham Diocese.  Unfortunately, at the end of the meeting, I had to interrupt conversations to get everyone’s attention in taking a group picture with his excellency.

I could physically see the frustration or facial expression while this was happening.

In another incident, of course, we had in the United States an interruption for 43 days with the Government shutdown.  We already know the Government shutdown caused stress on families, not knowing when it would end or if they were going to receive back pay.

We experience or experience interruptions when our Internet goes out at the most inopportune time in our Zoom Meetings. At least that’s how I see it.

I depend on the Internet, and when it’s not working, there is an interruption to my daily routine.

We have Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) that are supposed to hold up from power being interrupted but sometimes fail in the process.

We have people in our lives who fail to properly plan, causing us to react to their plans at the last minute.

These are the people who like to work in crisis management mode and are most likely to be reactive instead of being proactive.  The one who has never read “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” By Stephen R. Covey and doesn’t operate in quadrant two. They don’t understand the principles of “Put first things first.”

Covey talks about what is important versus what is urgent. Priority should be given in the following order:

• Quadrant I. Urgent and important (Do) – important deadlines and crises
• Quadrant II. Not urgent but important (Plan) – long-term development
• Quadrant III. Urgent but not important (Delegate) – distractions with deadlines
• Quadrant IV. Not urgent and not important (Eliminate) – frivolous distractions

“The order is important, says Covey: after completing items in quadrant I, people should spend the majority of their time on II, but many people spend too much time in III and IV. The calls to delegate and eliminate are reminders of their relative priority.”

You can also refer to this “The Eisenhower Matrix.”

The Eisenhower Matrix: How to Prioritize Your To-Do List [2025] • Asana

Overall, when I heard the homily, it hit home with all the interruptions in my life that I’ve dealt with over time.

What about your interruptions with people who sometimes just don’t get it?

Sometimes we get sleep interruptions, whereas we can’t go back to sleep, or our sleep cycles are broken.

I know that with the recent change of daylight savings time that took place on November 2, 2025, my circadian rhythm was interrupted.  I was interrupted with the clocks falling back an hour as I reset my internal clock for changes in guiding me back to sleep and waking up.

There are various schedule interruptions that we must contend with each day.

There are various health challenges that are part of aging and getting older.

There are various car challenges depending on your favorite automaker, as recalls are always happening.

Today, my question is what interruptions you are facing in life. Granted, there will be unpleasant things and circumstances may cause interruptions and delays, but never lose sight of your goal.

“Circumstances may cause interruptions and delays but never lose sight of your goal. Prepare yourself in every way you can by increasing your knowledge and adding to your experience, so that you can make the most of opportunity when it occurs.”  Mario Andretti

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/interruptions/

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Seeing it Through

Today, my thoughts are with all the people who had a vision and pursued it.

They listen to their hearts, spend time reflecting, and adjusting to the world around them as others watch.

Some call it fortitude and others may call it following their purpose in life.

This week many of us are celebrating Veterans Day, myself included as one who answered the call, seeing it through for 30 years.

As parents we see things through for our children ensuring that we do our best in giving them the things required and not just the things they want.

The military service has allowed plenty of great things to happen for me so that I could see things through for my family.

I’m currently in the role of caregiver for my wife.  I have found it humbling to see it through that others may have a quality of life they desire.

Every day each of us wakes up to see different things through to live a life worth living.

We age and sometimes we need a reality check to keep us grounded in seeing it through the next day.  We take our medicine, go to the doctors, and adjust our diets accordingly.

Another aspect of seeing it through for me was that this past weekend, I had the opportunity to host a specific Mass for Zone 4 (Gulf Coast District) Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary.

It’s seeing it through where believers in the grace of God, came together on November 8, 2025, for one purpose: honoring those Knights and Ladies who paved the way, keeping their light shining for others to see. It was our Annual Mass of the Deceased held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Huntsville, AL.

Everyone that was part of the committee had to see it through in order to make the program a success, which it was.

As I prepared to close my eyes at the end of day before going to sleep that evening, I wrote in my journal and reflected how grateful I was for God’s Grace allowing me to see it through.

This morning, my thoughts and prayers continue to go out for those who are affected by the Government shutdown that are not as fortunate as I am.

We continue to see the impacts when politicians in Washington fail to fund the government.  We now have to live with the consequences which have spread far beyond the Capitol.

Yesterday, was the 40th day, signaling the U.S. government shutdown reaching the longest in U.S. history.

What does that say about seeing it through for the American People.

I’ve often said that history seems to repeat itself yet, each year we continue to forget the past.

Many were already aware of those who would be affected before the government shutdown that were living from paycheck to check and now still missing a paycheck to support their families.

Today we have families standing in line due to the government shutdown.

I’m wondering how many families with the ongoing government shutdown are making decisions or have made decisions that forced families to skip meals amid delays in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits with them missing multiple paychecks over the last 40 days.

What impressed me was early on during the government shutdown agencies like USAA and Wells Fargo sent me messages checking to ensure that I was okay as a part of seeing it through.

I’m sure there are other organizations that have done the same for you.

In a little more than 17 days we will celebrate Thanksgiving Day, and it’s my prayer that government shutdown will be over.

As mentioned, every day we have opportunities to see things through and follow our purpose.

Today, my question is what are you seeing through in following your purpose in life?  See (something) through “To continue working on or engaging in something until it is completed or concluded.”

In the book: A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini he say’s “You see, some things I can teach you. Some you learn from books. But there are things that, well, you have to see and feel.”

“Seek and see all the marvels around you. You will get tired of looking at yourself alone, and that fatigue will make you deaf and blind to everything else. – Don Juan”

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/seeing-it-through/

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Why Hiring Motivational Speakers in Madison, AL Can Elevate Your Next Event

When you’re planning a high-impact event—whether it’s a corporate retreat, a school assembly, or a nonprofit kickoff—the right voice on-stage can make all the difference. Choosing a speaker who not only resonates with your audience but also sparks energy and action is key. If you’re located in or near Madison, Alabama, here's why hiring Motivational Speakers in Madison, AL can elevate your next event and deliver real results.

Local Presence, Regional Relevance

Hosting an event in Madison, Alabama and nearby areas means your audience shares common cultural references, community challenges, and aspirations. By engaging Motivational Speakers in Madison, AL, you tap into this local understanding. These speakers know the regional context—what motivates teams in this locale, how local businesses operate, and the types of leadership dynamics that matter here. This relevance makes your message land stronger, bridging the gap between “generic inspiration” and “actionable, relatable motivation.”

Tailored Messages That Hit Home

Generic keynote speeches can feel disconnected. When you select Motivational Speakers in Madison, AL, you gain access to professionals who specialise in customizing their message to align with local audience needs—whether it’s Alabama-based corporations, schools around Huntsville/Madison, or regional associations. They craft the narrative so it speaks directly to your company’s culture, your team’s goals, and your event’s outcome. That tailored approach means the message doesn’t just land—it sticks.

Energy and Momentum for Your Audience

One speaker can shift an entire room’s mindset. With the right motivator at the helm, attendees move from passive listening to active engagement. Our selected speakers emphasise momentum—igniting teams, boosting morale, and inspiring forward motion. When you bring in Motivational Speakers in Madison, AL, you’re not just filling a slot in the schedule—you’re creating a moment that turns into lasting momentum for your organisation.

Strategic Investment in Your Event’s Success

Let’s face it—events are investments: time, budget, brand reputation. Using a local speaker means less logistical complexity (travel, accommodation) and often better value. It also means these speakers may have past experience working in Alabama’s corporate, educational, or nonprofit sectors—so you get a mix of practical know-how and inspiration. With some research, you’ll find that local speakers not only uplift the room but provide return on investment through improved engagement, stronger take-aways, and actionable take-home insights.

Seamless Booking and Local Support

Working with regional professionals simplifies coordination. They understand venue dynamics around Madison, AL, know how to engage local audiences, and often have experience with a variety of event formats—from breakout sessions to full keynote talks. When you book Motivational Speakers in Madison, AL, you gain a partner who aligns with your timeline, understands the local workforce culture, and can even adapt on-site if needed. At this level of support, your event planning agency role is easier and your event delivery smoother.

Impact Beyond the Stage

The goal of any motivational engagement isn’t just applause—it’s action. Speakers who are selected carefully can provide follow-up tools: worksheets, discussion guides, team activities, or digital resources. This means the inspiration doesn’t end when the mic is turned off. Because the speakers know this region’s businesses and workforce environment, they can suggest practical steps your team can take the next day—and the week after. This helps transform an event from “memorable” to “meaningful”.

Why Choose Our Team for Your Next Event

We specialise in supporting organisations across the Madison, AL region—corporations, schools, associations—that seek not just a speaker, but a catalyst for change. We vet and match keynote presenters who deliver engagement, insight and transformation. From pre-event consultation through post-session follow-up, our full-service approach ensures your event is aligned, on-brand, and results-oriented. When you engage us, you choose a partner committed to raising the bar for your audience—ensuring your event doesn’t simply happen, but excels.

In today’s fast-moving environment, standing out means doing more than gathering people in a room—it means moving them. By choosing the right speaker—one who truly connects and inspires—you elevate your event from good to exceptional. Ready to bring that spark? Contact us today and let’s plan an experience your audience won’t forget.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthought.wordpress.com/2025/11/12/why-hiring-motivational-speakers-in-madison-al-can-elevate-your-next-event/

 

 

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Colors

Today, as we begin this first full week of November 2025, my eyes are seeing various colors.

One of the first things I see are the trees in my neighborhood changing colors.  I’m reminded of the beauty that continues to play in my mind when I was traveling through Upper New York State in the early 90s.  It was all the scenic routes through the Palisades scenic byways, scenic roads and scenic parkways seeing the fall foliage.

This year it’s the bright pink and red azaleas in my yard which are in full bloom the second time lining my walkway to my home.  Not to mention the big red tree across from my house and my neighbor’s red mums in his yard lining the entrance to his front door.

Each of us sees colors in a different way each day.  I see nature’s beauty unfolding, just as we set our clocks back for an hour for daylight saving time for the fall this past weekend.

Maybe it’s also the colorful words we hear others speak, or maybe it your reminder of the book or movie like the “Fifty Shades of Gray.”   For me, it’s those old black and white movies that once were popular, or even the colors of the leaves turning brown as winter begins to set in.

As I thought about the topic today, I also thought about how boring it would be if we didn’t have a pop of color in our lives.

I’m thinking also about the clothes we wear, the shoes we pick out for our outfits and the color of our hair as a starting point.

I’m one that doesn’t believe in dying my hair.  Although, I do get subtle reminders from my spouse who continues to remind me how gray I’m becoming.

Although those remarks don’t take away from how I am, it’s a fact that gray-haired people have wisdom, at least that’s my story.

What’s yours?

We also hear others talk about the colorful lives they have led or are living.

Yes, today color has different connotations for many people.

If you have ever been to the Augusta National specially “Amen Corner” (It’s one that I’ve had opportunity five times to visit) there you would have witnessed the greenest grass ever in my opinion.  It’s a golf course where the “Masters” is played where every single part of the immaculate golf course, is kept green.

As many of us are preparing for our yards to go dormant and brown; I’m enjoying my own “Amen Corner” while it lasts before the winter weather begins it freeze for the year.

As you and I walk through the various department stores, the colors orange and black is being replaced with red and green preparing us for the coming of Christmas.

We also know that it wasn’t long ago when we recently closed out Labor Day where the color of white pants used to be a common thing to stop wearing once it happened.

Many of us are also very accustomed to the phrase or color of a Blue-Collar Worker and White-Collar Worker, which we don’t hear about these days.

We even have the color associated with our foods, such as swamp soup, how we want our steaks cooked (pink or red), and the colors of our vegetables.

I’m also aware that we must be aware of our surroundings, because everyone doesn’t always look like me and I must be comfortable in my own skin.

I can thank my parents for that because we grew up for the most part not worrying about the color of someone’s skin.

Of course, those of age can remember “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.” The movie I’m speaking of happened in 1967 featuring Sidney Poitier, and Katharine Hepburn, and features Hepburn’s niece Katharine Houghton.

Today, this classic movie is one that many of our youth have no idea about.

However, movies like “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.” Is a trigger and a reminder of our past and where we are today.

Although we witness today plenty of interracial marriages in the United States, many are still being judged in my opinion for those that marry outside of their race.

Therefore, the color of love has various colors.

You may not be aware that: “The presence of 11 million interracial married couples nationwide represents a substantial population that continues to challenge traditional racial categories and cultural boundaries.”

https://www.theglobalstatistics.com/interracial-marriage-statistics/

The United States has come a long way, but not so much in my opinion with the Republicans being “Red’ and Democrats being “Blue” as we have continued to see in 2025.

Therefore, when you think about the word color it can have a different connotation all together in various categories.

I’m not one to judge you or whether you want to pass judgement on someone else, because for some of us we are hardwire to a specific belief based on how we were raised.  We must experience it for ourselves to understand the dynamics of rewiring those beliefs.

Spending 30 years in the uniform was part of my rewiring wearing green everyday allowed me to have a different perspective of color, because certain things were not openly allowed.

Today, there is a different standard anytime I see or hear the words Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion which is not being honored or as they say rolling it back.

How corporate America got DEI wrong : NPR

Today I challenge you to think about how you are wired and how you see colors.   As you dawn your rose-colored lenses think about all the colors that may be blocking what you are really seeing and feeling.

I agree with Dolly Parton “When someone shows you their true colors, believe them.”

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/colors/

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