As men, fathers and/or husbands we all strive to live life to the fullest and seek out experiences that challenge, inspire, and fulfill us. In this article, we have compiled a list of 153+ things every man should experience before he dies.

Hot air balloons in the blue sky

From adventurous awesomeness to personal growth, these experiences will broaden your eyes, ignite your passion, and leave you with unforgettable memories. So, without further ado, here is the ultimate bucket list for men.

Please go through this list at your own pace. How many of these have you already done? The worst thing you can do is to wait to do these… So get out soon and get a few of these done. Come on, it’s time to learn how to sew or Tango. 

An Awesome List of Things that Men Should Do Before They Die

1. Live in a Foreign Country

One of the best things you can do for yourself is live in a whole other country. Dip your toes in a different culture, learn a new language, and gain a fresh perspective on life. I did this 25 years ago… I never looked back. 

2. Take a Solo Trip

The best way to get to know yourself is to go on an exciting journey alone, discover new destinations, and gain independence and self-confidence. This must be on your to-do lists before you get married and have children.

3. Experience the Joy of Living on Your Own

Learn to be self-reliant, embrace solitude, and cultivate a sense of independence.

4. Embrace Failure 

Hug failure, learn from your mistakes, and use setbacks as opportunities for growth.

5. Spend Time Completely Surrounded by Nature

Disconnect from technology, explore the great outdoors, and experience the tranquility of nature. 

6. Do Something Extreme

Challenge yourself physically and mentally, whether it’s bungee jumping, paragliding, skydiving or running a marathon!

7. Have Your Heart Broken into a Million Pieces

Learn from past relationships, grow emotionally, and discover the strength to heal and move on.

8. Learn a New Skill

Expand your knowledge and capabilities by learning to play an instrument, speak a new language, or develop a new hobby. Learn new things yearly to be the best person you can be.

9. Volunteer and Give Back

Make a difference in your community, lend a helping hand, and experience the joy of selfless acts. Get a good friend involved and see where it leads you.

10. Start Your Own Business

Take a leap of faith, pursue your passion, and experience the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. Do you have a good idea for a biz venture? Just fucking do it! 

a sphere with different countries flags

11. Travel to Remote and Exotic Destinations

Explore breathtaking landscapes, drown yourself in different cultures, and create lifelong memories. Get on a plane to anywhere a long way from home. You’ll thank yourself in the future. 

12. Master a Physical Discipline

Is being an MMA fighter on your wish list? Well…maybe not…Whether it’s martial arts, yoga, or weightlifting, achieve mastery over your body and cultivate discipline and resilience.

13. Attend a Retreat or Seminar for Personal Growth

Invest in your personal development, gain new insights, and connect with like-minded individuals. How about booking a temple stay somewhere in Asia? Incredible experience.

14. Learn to Cook

Discover the essential life skill of cooking.  Impress friends and loved ones, and feed your body and soul with some noodles and dumplings and other cool new items you’d like to know how to cook.

15. Read Widely and Expand Your Mind

Open your mind to literature, explore different genres, and broaden your perspective through the power of words. Reading did not stop in high school or university. Reading is a great thing to do to upgrade your life.

16. Develop a Unique Style

Express your individuality through fashion, experiment with different looks, and cultivate your personal style.

17. Take a Road Trip

Hit the open road, explore new destinations, see different things, and create unforgettable memories with friends or loved ones.

18. Face Your Fears

Confront your fears head-on, whether it’s public speaking, heights, or trying something completely out of your comfort zone.

19. Learn to Play a Team Sport

Experience the camaraderie of teamwork, develop leadership skills, and stay physically active.

20. Attend a Major Sporting Event

Immerse yourself in the energy and excitement of a live sports event, whether it’s the Super Bowl, World Cup, or Olympics. I’ve seen the 2002 World Cup here in Korea as well as the Pyeongchang Olympics of 2018, awesome time to be alive!

couple dancing in black and white

Good Things Are Brewing!

21. Get Involved in Philanthropy

Make a positive impact on society, support causes you believe in, and leave a lasting legacy.

22. Learn to Dance

Find your inner rhythm, improve coordination, and experience the joy of movement.

23. Learn Survival Skills

Prepare yourself for any situation,learn basic survival skills such as navigation, building shelter, and starting a fire.

24. Learn to Meditate

Cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and find inner peace through the practice of meditation.

25. Take a Digital Detox

Disconnect from technology, embrace solitude, and reconnect with the present moment.

26. Learn to Fix Things

Develop practical skills by learning to fix common household items, cars, or electronics.

27. Attend a Music Festival

Immerse yourself in the power of live music, connect with fellow music lovers, and create unforgettable memories.

28. Learn to Defend Yourself

Take self-defense classes, gain confidence, and learn to protect yourself and others.

29. Learn to Budget and Manage Your Finances

Take control of your financial future, learn to budget, save, and invest wisely.

30. Learn to Give and Receive Constructive Feedback

Develop effective communication skills, foster meaningful relationships, and grow personally and professionally.

31. Learn a Traditional Craft or Art Form

Explore traditional crafts such as woodworking, pottery, or painting, and tap into your creative side.

32. Volunteer Abroad

Throw yourself in a different culture, make a difference in disadvantaged communities, and gain a global perspective. You’ll have good times and probably make some best friends along the way.

33. Learn to Play Poker

Master the art of bluffing, develop strategic thinking skills, and enjoy friendly competition with a friend or two.

34. Learn to Negotiate

Develop negotiation skills, whether it’s in business, personal relationships, or everyday situations.

35. Learn to Forgive

Let go of resentment and grudges, cultivate compassion, and experience the freedom that comes with forgiveness.

36. Take Up Photography

Capture the beauty of the world through the lens, develop your creative eye, and create lasting memories.

37. Learn to Surf

Ride the waves, connect with nature, and experience the thrill of catching the perfect wave.

38. Learn to Grow Your Own Food

Start a garden, cultivate your own vegetables, and experience the satisfaction of growing your own food.

one of the things men should experience before they die: Playing chess

More Things Every Man Should Experience

Learn How To…

39. Play Chess

Develop strategic thinking, improve memory and concentration, and enjoy the timeless game of chess.

40. Dress Well

Cultivate your personal style, dress with confidence, and make a lasting impression with your appearance.

41. Perform Magic Tricks

Amaze and entertain others with your sleight-of-hand skills, and embrace the joy of wonder and surprise.

42. Mix Cocktails

Become a skilled mixologist, impress friends with your cocktail creations, and enjoy your drink of choice. Rum and Coke, please!

43. Write Poetry

Express your emotions through the power of words, explore your creativity, and discover the beauty of poetry.

44. Paint or Draw

Tap into your artistic side, express yourself through visual art, and unleash your creativity.

45. Play a Musical Instrument

Experience the joy of creating music, express yourself through sound, and develop a lifelong passion.

46. Appreciate Fine Wine

Expand your taste buds, explore different wine regions, and learn to savor the nuances of fine wine.

47. Cook a Signature Dish

Master the art of preparing a signature dish that reflects your cooking style. Check these out!

48. Practice Mindfulness

Create awareness, reduce stress, and live in the present moment through the practice of mindfulness.

49. Perform Card Tricks

Entertain friends and family with your card magic skills, and enjoy of illusion and mystery.

50. Play a Classic Board Game

Rediscover the joy of playing classic board games like chess, Monopoly, or Scrabble with friends and loved ones.

51. Play a Foreign Language Song

Expand your musical repertoire, embrace different cultures, and learn to play a song in a foreign language.

52. Sew or Knit

Develop practical skills by learning to sew or knit, and create handmade items with love and care. It’s a great skill to learn in the long run. 

53. Hike and Navigate Outdoor Trails

Explore the great outdoors, connect with nature, and develop navigational skills for outdoor adventures.

54. Perform Basic Car Maintenance

Become self-sufficient in car maintenance, learn to change oil, replace tires, and perform basic repairs.

55. Brew Your Own Beer

Become a master brewer, experiment with different flavors, and enjoy the rewarding process of brewing your own beer.

56. Dance a Partner Dance

Connect with others through the joy of partner dancing, whether it’s salsa, tango, or swing.

one of the things men should experience before they die: Learn First Aid

Goal Setting! Do It Now!

Learn How To…(Cont)

57. Perform Basic First Aid

Develop lifesaving skills, be prepared for emergencies, and make a difference in critical situations.

58. Basic Gardening

Create a beautiful garden, grow your own flowers or vegetables, and connect with nature.

59. Perform Basic Plumbing Repairs

Fix common plumbing issues, such as unclogging drains or repairing leaky pipes, and become a handyman.

60. Do Basic Electrical Repairs

Gain confidence in handling electrical repairs, such as replacing outlets or installing light fixtures.

61. Basic Carpentry

Develop woodworking skills, build your own furniture or home projects, and unleash your creativity.

62. Basic Computer Repairs

Become tech-savvy by learning basic computer repair skills, such as troubleshooting software issues or replacing hardware.

63. Baking Techniques

Delight friends and family with homemade baked goods, and learn to bake bread, pastries, or cakes.

64. Cheese Tasting

Discover the world of cheese, learn to taste and pair different varieties, and become a cheese expert!

65. Chocolate Tasting

Check out the world of chocolate, and learn to taste and appreciate different flavors.

66. Coffee Tasting

Immerse yourself in the world of coffee, learn to taste and brew different beans, and become a coffee aficionado.

67. Whiskey Tasting

Discover the world of whiskey, learn to taste and appreciate different styles, and become a whiskey connoisseur.

68. Beer Tasting

Expand your beer knowledge, learn to taste different styles and flavors, and become a beer super dude.

69. Sake Tasting

Explore the world of sake, learn to taste and appreciate different varieties, and become a sake lover.

70. Cigar Tasting

Get smokey in the world of cigars, learn to taste and appreciate different blends, and become a student of cigars of all sorts.

71. Herbal Tea Tasting

Sip yourself silly in the world of herbal tea, and learn to taste and brew different blends.

Learn Powerful Lessons

72. Learn to Sail

Take to the open waters, learn to navigate a sailboat, and experience the freedom of the ocean

73. Attend a Live Comedy Show

Experience the joy of live stand-up comedy, laugh until your stomach hurts, and appreciate the art of humor.

74. Swim with Dolphins

Connect with these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat, and experience the wonder of marine life.

75. Explore a Shipwreck

Dive deep into the ocean and explore a historic shipwreck, uncovering secrets of the past.

76. Climb a Mountain

Reach new heights by climbing a mountain, and enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit.

77. Learn to Play Golf

Master the game of patience and precision, and enjoy the challenge of hitting the perfect shot.

78. Attend a World-Class Art Exhibit

Immerse yourself in the world of fine art, and appreciate the creativity and genius of world-renowned artists.

79. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

Float above the world in a hot air balloon, and experience the tranquility of drifting through the skies.

man walking on a glacier

80. Walk on a Glacier

Trek across a massive glacier, and marvel at the power and beauty of nature’s frozen landscapes.

81. Learn to Juggle

Challenge your coordination and focus by learning the fun and quirky skill of juggling.

82. Start a Blog

Share your thoughts, experiences, and passions with the world, and connect with a global audience.

83. Attend a Traditional Festival in Another Country

Go check it out for yourself! Fall into a unique cultural celebration, and experience traditions such as Mardi Gras, or the Christmas Market in Germany are all great examples. 

84. Take a Polar Plunge

Jump into freezing cold water for a cause or just for fun, and experience mother nature at her chilliest!

85. Go on a Safari

See wild animals up close in their natural habitat, and experience the awe of nature’s most majestic creatures.

86. Write a Book

Put your thoughts, stories, or knowledge into a book, and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

87. Go Whale Watching

Witness the beauty and grandeur of whales as they breach the surface of the ocean.

88. Visit All Seven Continents

Explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences that each of the seven continents has to offer.

89. Participate in a Charity Race

Combine fitness with philanthropy by participating in a charity run or race, and support a cause you care about.

Enjoy Every Moment Of Our Existence

90. Live Off the Grid for a Week

Disconnect from modern technology and conveniences, and experience the simplicity and tranquility of off-grid living.

91. Learn to Make Sushi

Master the art of sushi making, and impress your friends with your culinary skills.

92. Attend a TED Talk Live

Be inspired by innovative ideas and thought-provoking talks from some of the world’s brightest minds.

93. Take a Cross-Country Train Ride

Travel by train across a country or continent, and enjoy the scenic views from the comfort of a train car.

94. Participate in an Obstacle Course Race

Challenge yourself physically by competing in a Tough Mudder, Spartan Race, or similar obstacle course event.

Ice skates on the ice

95. Learn to Ice Skate

Glide across the ice, improve your balance, and enjoy the fun of skating.

96. Go Ziplining

Soar through the treetops or over mountains and valleys, and experience the thrill of ziplining.

97. Attend a Classical Music Concert

Experience the beauty and power of live classical music, and appreciate the skill of world-class musicians.

98. Go Paragliding

Fly like a bird and take in stunning views as you glide through the air.

99. Take a Wilderness Survival Course

Learn essential survival skills like building a shelter, finding food and water, and starting a fire in the wild.

100. Attend a Film Festival

Watch indie films, attend premieres, and experience the magic of cinema at a world-renowned film festival.

101. Learn to Read Body Language

Improve your communication skills by learning how to read nonverbal cues and body language.

102. Visit one of The Wonders of the World

Stand in awe of one of the world’s natural wonders, like the Grand Canyon, Victoria Falls, Mount Everest or the Great Wall of China!

103. Go Scuba Diving

Explore the depths of the ocean, discover vibrant coral reefs, and swim among exotic marine life.

104. Write a Letter to Your Future Self

Reflect on your current life and goals, and write a letter to your future self to open years down the road.

105. Attend a Masquerade Ball

Don an elegant mask and attend a masquerade ball, experiencing the mystery and glamour of the event.

106. Visit a Ghost Town

Explore a historic ghost town, and imagine the lives of the people who once lived there.

107. Learn to Make Your Own Cheese

Experiment with cheese-making, and enjoy the rewards of your homemade creations.

108. Ride a Motorcycle

Experience the freedom of the open road on a motorcycle, and feel the wind in your hair.

109. Run with the Bulls in Pamplona

Take part in one of the most exhilarating and dangerous traditions in the world: the Running of the Bulls.

110. Take a Helicopter Ride

Get a bird’s-eye view of a city or landscape from the vantage point of a helicopter.

111. Learn a New Dance Style

Expand your dancing skills by learning a new style, whether it’s salsa, ballroom, or hip-hop.

112. Visit an Active Volcano

Stand in awe of nature’s power by visiting an active volcano, and witness the raw energy of the Earth.

113. Go Ice Fishing

Experience the serenity of winter fishing, and enjoy the challenge of catching fish through the ice.

114. Take an Ancestry DNA Test

Discover your roots by taking a DNA test, and learn more about your family history.

115. Build a Piece of Furniture

Get hands-on and create a functional piece of furniture, like a table or chair, from scratch.

watching a meteor shower

Great List Of Thing To Try Now

116. Fly a Plane

Take to the skies and learn the basics of piloting a small aircraft.

117. Watch a Meteor Shower

Lay under the stars and witness the wonder of a meteor shower lighting up the night sky.

118. Hike a Famous Trail

Tackle a famous trail, like the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail, and enjoy the beauty of nature.

119. Attend a Fashion Show

Immerse yourself in the world of fashion by attending a runway show and appreciating cutting-edge designs.

120. Go Horseback Riding

Connect with nature and animals by riding a horse through scenic trails.

121. Learn to Fly a Drone

Master the controls of a drone, and capture stunning aerial footage of landscapes and events.

122. Attend a Renaissance Fair

Step back in time and enjoy the medieval atmosphere, costumes, and performances at a Renaissance fair.

123. Go Whitewater Rafting

Feel the rush of adventure as you navigate through rapids on a whitewater rafting trip.

124. Join a Book Club

Share your love of reading by joining a book club, and engage in meaningful discussions about literature.

125. Participate in a Wine Harvest

Help pick grapes during a wine harvest, and experience the joy of being part of the winemaking process.

126. Go Stargazing in a Remote Location

Escape the city lights, and experience the beauty of a clear night sky filled with stars.

127. Learn to Tango in Argentina

Travel to Argentina and learn the passionate and intricate dance of the tango.

128. Go Snowboarding

Hit the slopes and learn the exhilarating sport of snowboarding.

129. Attend a Comic-Con Event

Immerse yourself in the world of pop culture, meet fans and celebrities, and enjoy the excitement of a Comic-Con event.

130. Write a Love Letter

Express your feelings and emotions through a heartfelt love letter to someone special.

131. Attend a Broadway Show

Experience the magic of live theater by attending a Broadway show in New York City.

132. Take a Ride on a Luxury Train

Experience the elegance and comfort of luxury train travel, complete with gourmet dining and stunning views.

133. Create a Vision Board

Set your goals and intentions by creating a visual representation of your dreams and aspirations.

134. Learn to Fence

Channel your inner swordsman by learning the art of fencing, and develop agility and precision.

135. Host a Murder Mystery Dinner

Invite friends for a night of intrigue and suspense by hosting a murder mystery dinner party.

136. Ride a Camel in the Desert

Explore the vastness of the desert by riding a camel and experiencing the nomadic lifestyle.

137. Go on a Deep-Sea Fishing Trip

Head out to the open ocean, cast your line, and try to catch some of the largest fish in the world.

138. Learn to Cook Over an Open Fire

Master the skill of cooking delicious meals over a campfire, and enjoy the simplicity of outdoor cooking.

139. Attend a Ballet Performance

Appreciate the grace, skill, and beauty of live ballet, and be captivated by the storytelling through dance.

140. Swim in a Bioluminescent Bay

Experience the magic of swimming in waters that light up with bioluminescent organisms, creating a glowing effect.

141. Participate in a Beach Clean-Up

Give back to the environment by joining a beach clean-up effort and helping to protect marine ecosystems.

142. Attend a Circus Performance

Be entertained by acrobats, clowns, and animals at a live circus performance.

143. Create a Scrapbook

Keep your memories by creating a scrapbook filled with photos, mementos, and personal stories.

144. Go Kite Surfing

Combine surfing and paragliding by learning the exhilarating water sport of kite surfing.

145. Visit a Butterfly Sanctuary

Walk among hundreds of colorful butterflies, and learn about their life cycle and habitat.

146. Participate in a Flash Mob

Join a group of strangers for a spontaneous and coordinated public performance, surprising onlookers.

a tuk tuk in Thailand

147. Ride in a Tuk-Tuk in Thailand

Explore the streets of Thailand in a tuk-tuk, a fun and unique way to get around.

148. Go Birdwatching

Grab your binoculars and take to nature, identifying different bird species in their natural habitat.

149. Learn to Make Homemade Pasta

Get hands-on in the kitchen and learn to make fresh pasta from scratch, creating awesome Italian dishes.

150. Go Night Diving

Experience the underwater world at night, and discover the unique marine life that comes out after dark.

151. Plant a Tree

Leave a positive mark on the environment by planting a tree, and watch it grow for years to come.

152. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Balance on a paddleboard and glide across calm waters, enjoying a peaceful and fun water activity.

153. Participate in a Triathlon

Challenge your endurance and fitness by competing in a triathlon, combining swimming, cycling, and running.

old Japanese man smiling

You’re In a Good Place!

Male Lifespans Around The World

Let’s now check out how long we guys are sticking around on this planet—and it turns out, that where you live plays a big part in your lifespan.

Spoiler alert: the numbers across the world are all over the place. So, here’s a look at how men are doing in some of the top OECD countries in terms of life expectancy.

Japan: 81.3 Years

First up is Japan, the gold medalist for the physical lifespan of men. The average Japanese guy can expect to live to about 81.3 years old. You know what’s helping them rack up those years?

Diet. Loads of fresh fish, vegetables, and a crazy good health care system. Plus, there’s something about a calm, peaceful lifestyle that seems to keep the stress levels down.

Switzerland: 81.2 Years

The Swiss—known for their chocolate, watches, and, apparently, their longevity. The adult man in Switzerland lives an average of 81.2 years. Maybe it’s all that mountain air from the Alps, or the fact that they’re big on clean living.

Or maybe it’s the reliable healthcare and a social system that takes a lot of pressure off people as they age.

Norway: 80.9 Years

Norway is right up there with an impressive average of 80.9 years for men. It’s probably because Norwegians are out hiking in all kinds of weather, staying active, and eating well.

They’ve got some top-tier healthcare, and let’s be honest, they’re living in a pretty chill place—less hustle, less stress.

Australia: 80.5 Years

Now let’s head down under. Aussie men are living to about 80.5 years. With a laid-back beach lifestyle, solid healthcare, and a love for sports and outdoor activities, they’re in great shape for the long haul.

Plus, you can’t forget about that Aussie sunshine—it’s probably giving them some sort of superpower!

Canada: 80.3 Years

Oh, Canada! Men here live to around 80.3 years. Maybe it’s all the politeness that keeps the stress down, or it’s that fresh northern air. Plus, the universal healthcare doesn’t hurt.

Canadian guys tend to live well and have access to good medical care when they need it or in emergency situations. Hockey keeps the heart pumping, too, right?

Iceland: 80.3 Years

Icelandic men are also clocking in at 80.3 years. Living on an island with jaw-dropping landscapes must do wonders for the soul. They’ve got one of the best healthcare systems, and these guys stay active in that beautiful, rugged terrain.

Fresh air, fresh fish, and some geothermal magic? I’m not complaining.

South Korea: 80.0 Years

South Korean men are living an average of 80 years, which is impressive given how quickly the country developed. The secret sauce here? Healthy food like kimchi, rice, and loads of veggies, along with a solid healthcare system.

Korean men might be working long hours, but they’re balancing it out with some impressive health habits.

Sweden: 80.2 Years

Swedish men are making it to around 80.2 years. The Swedes live that ‘lagom’ lifestyle, which is all about balance. Their welfare system takes care of people, and they’re big on outdoor activities. Maybe all that Nordic skiing is adding extra years.

Italy: 80.0 Years

Ah, Italy! Home of pasta, pizza, and longevity. Italian men live to around 80 years. Despite all the carb-heavy meals, the Mediterranean diet—think olive oil, fresh veggies, and fish—has got their back.

Plus, family life is huge here, and that social bond seems to do wonders for overall happiness and well-being.

USA: 76.1 Years

Now, here we are in the United States, where the life expectancy for men sits at around 76.1 years. While that’s lower than most other countries on this list, there’s a lot of variation based on lifestyle, location, and access to healthcare.

Getting medical attention can be a bit tricky, but the good news is things are improving, and there’s a growing focus on fitness and mental health. There’s hope for the future!

regrets of men. Hope and Regret sign

Common Regrets of Men

Here are some common regrets that men often reflect on later in life

Career Choices

Many men regret not pursuing their passions or choosing careers that truly fulfill them. They often feel stuck in jobs that don’t align with their interests or values.

Financial Security

Failing to save for the future is a significant regret. Many men realize too late the importance of financial planning and saving for retirement, leading to anxiety about their financial stability later in life

Family Relationships

A common regret is not spending enough quality time with family, especially children. Many men prioritize work over personal relationships, which can lead to feelings of missed opportunities..

Health and Wellness

In the flurry of day-to-day activities, neglecting physical health was a common regret. Many men wish they had taken better care of their bodies and managed stress more effectively throughout their lives.

Romantic Relationships

Regrets can also arise from romantic relationships, whether it’s failing to express feelings or not pursuing meaningful connections

Education

Some men express regret about not furthering their education or developing new skills, especially when they feel trapped in their careers

Travel and Adventure

A lack of travel and exploration during youth is a regret for many. They often wish they had taken more opportunities to experience new cultures and adventures.

a couple swinging on the beach

Living in the Moment

Many men regret not appreciating the present moment or not living life to the fullest, often getting caught up in worries about the future.

Stepping Out of Comfort Zones

Regrets about staying within familiar boundaries and not taking risks are common. Men often realize too late that they missed out on valuable experiences by not stepping outside their comfort zones.

Not Seeking Help

Finally, some men regret not seeking help when they needed it, whether for mental health issues or personal struggles. They may feel that asking for help is a sign of weakness, which can lead to long-term consequences.

Last Thoughts

The most important thing is to enjoy every moment of the short speck of our existence here. This list of potential fun life experiences spans various genres, from personal growth to adventure and cuisine exploration. Each one offers a unique opportunity for self-discovery, growth, and enrichment.

So, pick a few that resonate with you and get on your journey to a fulfilling and extraordinary life. Make your own list of upcoming goals and get to it! Remember, your whole life is meant to be lived to the fullest, and these experiences will help you do just that.

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