PDF Summary:Black Saturday, by Trey Yingst

When Hamas launches a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, it triggers a devastating war. In Black Saturday, Trey Yingst follows the deadly events through the eyes of Israeli and Palestinian civilians. He reveals the immense toll on both sides, the political maneuvering, and the struggle to shape the narrative. Yingst also explores his personal challenges reporting from the frontlines.

The author's meticulous depiction captures the chaos and suffering that unfold as Israel unleashes air strikes and ground troops into Gaza. Through raw, firsthand accounts, Yingst humanizes the sweeping violence and its lingering trauma. He delivers an impartial retelling of a conflict that consumed the world's attention.

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• Create a "fear jar" where you write down fears or uncertainties on pieces of paper each time they arise and place them in the jar. At the end of the week, review them to identify patterns and consider ways to address these fears, simulating the process of confronting and managing the emotions described.

The difficult endeavor of obtaining their freedom was facilitated through the diplomatic interventions of two nations, Qatar and Egypt.

Yingst chronicles the strenuous endeavors undertaken to negotiate the freedom of the captive. He elaborates on the complexities of pivotal diplomatic discussions, emphasizing the mediation roles played by Qatar and Egypt in brokering a deal between Israel and Hamas. He also emphasizes the continuous challenge of reconciling hostage rescue efforts with the concurrent military actions aimed at Hamas.

He notes the fragility of the ceasefire, explaining the collapse of negotiations that precipitated a renewal of hostilities. Yingst highlighted the political underpinnings embedded within the prisoner swap process, pointing out the deep-seated mistrust between the parties involved.

Other Perspectives

• The influence of Qatar and Egypt might be overstated without acknowledging the internal pressures and dynamics within Israel and Hamas that led to the decision to negotiate.
• The term "pivotal" suggests a turning point or crucial importance, but sometimes diplomatic discussions serve more to maintain the status quo or manage a situation rather than resolve it.
• Diplomatic efforts and military strategies can be part of a cohesive policy where one complements the other, rather than being at odds.
• The collapse of negotiations could sometimes lead to a reassessment of strategies and potentially pave the way for more sustainable solutions in the long term, rather than being seen purely as a setback.
• Political underpinnings in such negotiations are not always indicative of mistrust; they can also reflect strategic positioning or the pursuit of mutual interests.

The liberated captives and their relatives experienced poignant reunions and continued to endure psychological distress.

Yingst captures the intricate emotional landscape that emerged with the freeing of some prisoners. He portrays the solace and joy experienced upon the reunion of families, yet he does not shy away from the harsh reality that hostilities had resulted in the continued captivity of some individuals and the loss of life for others. The author focuses on the emotional scars carried by those who endured captivity, emphasizing the long-term psychological impact of such trauma.

He notes the profound impact of hostage releases on the Israeli public, with families gathering at airbases and hospitals to welcome their loved ones home. Yingst also acknowledges the release of Palestinian detainees in Israel, detailing the jubilation within Palestinian communities and the apprehension in Israel that such actions might bolster the capabilities of organizations that share Hamas's ideological beliefs.

Context

• Reintegration into society can be difficult for former captives, who may face stigma or struggle to find their place in a world that has moved on without them.
• Such reunions can serve as a powerful symbol of resilience and hope, often becoming focal points for media coverage and public interest.
• The continued captivity of individuals can be due to various factors, including failed negotiations, lack of diplomatic relations, or strategic decisions by captors to use hostages as leverage in political or military negotiations.
• The physical conditions of captivity, such as malnutrition or abuse, can have lasting health impacts, compounding psychological distress.
• Trauma can lead to changes in brain structure and function, affecting areas involved in emotion regulation, memory, and stress response.
• The anticipation and uncertainty surrounding hostage releases can cause significant stress and anxiety among the public, affecting societal morale and mental health.
• In many cultures, including those in the Middle East, welcoming ceremonies for returning loved ones can include traditional rituals, such as offering food, prayers, or symbolic gestures, to mark the occasion and express gratitude.
• In Palestinian society, detainees are often seen as symbols of resistance against Israeli occupation. Their release is celebrated as a victory and a reaffirmation of their struggle for self-determination.
• Previous prisoner exchanges have sometimes led to increased tensions or violence, as released individuals may return to militant activities, which can escalate conflicts.

Palestinians and Israelis were the opposing parties in the confrontations.

Yingst dedicates a significant portion of his book to exploring the intimate narratives of people caught in the turmoil of war. He provides an in-depth perspective on the conflict, emphasizing its effects on the inhabitants of both Israel and the areas under Palestinian control.

The assault on October 7 instilled terror and chaos among the Israeli populace.

In his narrative, Yingst masterfully interweaves personal stories and direct reporting to portray the profound distress and fear that descended upon Israeli communities as a result of the October 7 assault. He focuses on the initial shock and disbelief, the desperation of families under attack, and the long-lasting trauma that followed the massacre.

The horrific massacres that took place in frontier communities, particularly in the vicinity of Kibbutz Be'eri and during the event known as the Tribe of Nova Music Festival.

Yingst delves into the details of numerous horrific mass murders, focusing on the attack at Kibbutz Be'eri and the tragic occurrences at the Tribe of Nova Music Festival. He meticulously reconstructs the sequence of events, drawing on eyewitness testimonies and the harrowing evidence remaining, to present a vivid depiction of the brutality experienced by those communities.

He narrates the distressing experiences of people like Yasmin Porat, who survived the turmoil at the Nova Music Festival and narrowly escaped death in Be'eri. He narrates the distressing ordeal of Hadas Dagan, a senior resident of Be'eri, whose spouse, Adi, perished amidst the chaos and intense gunfire, with her narrative underscoring the profound fear that gripped the local population. Yingst's narrative provides a gripping depiction of the unexpected hostility encountered by individuals within Israel's boundaries.

Context

• The term "massacre" refers to the indiscriminate and brutal slaughter of people. In historical and geopolitical contexts, such events can be part of larger conflicts, often involving complex political, ethnic, or territorial disputes.
• This process involves piecing together various sources of information to create a coherent timeline and understanding of what occurred. It often requires cross-referencing different accounts and evidence to ensure accuracy.
• The stories of survivors like Yasmin Porat and Hadas Dagan are crucial for understanding the human impact of the events. They offer insights into the emotional and psychological aftermath experienced by those who lived through the attacks.
• Music festivals in Israel, like elsewhere, are typically peaceful gatherings, and an attack on such an event would be particularly shocking due to the contrast between the expected atmosphere of celebration and the violence that occurred.

The grief of families intensified as they faced the reality of being separated from their loved one.

Yingst conveys the deep sense of despair and solitude that pervaded Israeli society in the aftermath of the attack. He documents the anguish of families as they seek details about their unaccounted-for loved ones, the profound grief at memorials for those who have passed, and the agonizing wait for news regarding relatives who were unaccounted for.

He narrates the distressing ordeal faced by his colleague Yoav Shamir, who, while relieved at his brother Gil's survival in Nir Oz, grieved over the deaths of close companions and colleagues. The narrative also describes the Peri family's deep distress when their head of the family, Chaim, a proponent of harmony, was kidnapped and held captive in a subterranean location in Gaza. The narratives of numerous individuals, combined with these accounts, offer a glimpse into a country struggling with deep sorrow and distress.

Context

• The separation of families can also have political ramifications, influencing public opinion and policy decisions, as governments may be pressured to take action to reunite families or address the causes of the separation.
• Media coverage of attacks can amplify feelings of despair by continuously highlighting the tragedy and its aftermath.
• Families may face legal challenges, such as accessing bank accounts or making decisions on behalf of the missing person, which adds to their distress.
• Memorials provide a space for collective healing and solidarity, allowing communities to come together to support one another and honor the memories of those lost.
• The uncertainty of not knowing a loved one's fate can lead to severe anxiety and stress, often resulting in long-term psychological effects such as PTSD.
• This psychological phenomenon occurs when someone survives a traumatic event while others do not, often leading to feelings of guilt and questioning why they were spared.
• Kidnappings can lead to increased security measures and military responses, affecting daily life and regional stability.
• Chaim Peri is known for his efforts in promoting peace and understanding between different communities, which makes his kidnapping particularly poignant given his dedication to harmony.
• The mention of individuals being unaccounted for indicates a chaotic aftermath, where families are left in uncertainty, a common scenario in large-scale emergencies or attacks.

The individuals who endured the initial attack experienced considerable mental distress yet demonstrated extraordinary fortitude.

Yingst acknowledges the steadfast resilience displayed by the Israelis during the initial attack. The book chronicles the resolve of the steadfast individuals, the united endeavors to provide mutual assistance, and the continuous journey toward recovery from the profound trauma that the nation endured.

Trey Yingst highlights the courage of Mali Shoshana, a police officer who courageously confronted Hamas fighters during an intense confrontation at the Sderot police station. Despite her grievous injuries, she bravely remained at her station to transmit a last message intended for her offspring, should she fail to survive. Mali, along with other survivors, embodies the unwavering resolve of individuals who conquered the early difficulties and the challenges that followed.

Context

• In Israeli society, there is a strong cultural emphasis on unity and perseverance, often referred to as "esprit de corps," which plays a crucial role in how communities respond to crises.
• Individual stories of survival and resilience can illustrate the personal dimensions of recovery, highlighting diverse experiences and coping mechanisms.
• Women serve in various capacities within the Israeli security forces, including combat roles. Mali Shoshana's actions highlight the contributions and sacrifices of female officers in high-stress and dangerous situations.
• In conflict situations, communication systems are crucial for coordinating defense efforts and ensuring that messages, especially personal ones, can be relayed under dire circumstances.
• The collective efforts to rebuild and support each other after attacks are crucial for long-term recovery, involving both governmental and non-governmental organizations.

The people living in Gaza endured significant difficulties and challenges.

Yingst delves deeply into the challenges encountered by the people residing within the confines of the Gaza Strip. He emphasizes the turmoil and suffering they faced, coupled with the ensuing humanitarian crisis that emerged from the prolonged air attacks and the subsequent invasion by land forces.

Military operations conducted by Israel had a profound effect on the societal and infrastructural elements within Gaza.

Yingst documents the widespread destruction in Gaza, which was a consequence of Israel's military actions and air strikes. He depicts entire communities transformed into debris, essential services devastated, and the immense challenges that inhabitants encounter while attempting to move through a city besieged by relentless attacks.

He depicts the distressing ordeals faced by ordinary people as they withstand the relentless attack, highlighting their constant state of dread and unpredictability. Dr. Raed Mousa's narrative reaches a critical juncture as he and his family manage to flee Gaza, highlighting the difficulties they faced. The tale of Mousa poignantly captures the distressing experiences that many Gazans endure amidst the turmoil of conflict.

Context

• These military operations often draw international attention and criticism, leading to debates in global forums such as the United Nations about human rights and the proportionality of military force.
• Finding safe shelter becomes a priority, and the destruction of homes forces many to seek refuge in overcrowded and potentially unsafe locations.
• The unpredictability of attacks disrupts daily routines, making it difficult for people to work, attend school, or access healthcare, leading to a breakdown of normal societal functions.
• Damage to roads and transportation infrastructure due to military actions can hinder evacuation efforts, making it physically challenging to flee.
• Global reactions to conflicts in Gaza vary, with some countries and organizations calling for ceasefires and humanitarian aid, while others focus on political solutions.

Residents of Gaza were confronted with a critical situation, struggling with shortages of food, power, and healthcare necessities.

Yingst emphasizes the deteriorating situation for Gaza's residents, who face severe shortages of food, power, and healthcare supplies. He illustrates the struggles of hospitals functioning without essential resources while the number of fatalities increased, compelling families to find shelter in overcrowded UN educational structures and additional premises.

He converses with Palestinians who are persevering through difficult conditions, recording their struggles and tribulations. Sireen Beseiso and her son Aden managed to escape the turmoil in Gaza, becoming emblematic of the civilians in search of a safe passage to evacuate. Yingst also emphasizes the challenges faced by global humanitarian organizations as they strived to deliver vital resources to a besieged populace.

Context

• While international organizations attempt to provide aid, restrictions on movement and access imposed by the blockade often delay or limit the delivery of crucial supplies.
• Frequent power outages in Gaza severely impact hospital operations, affecting everything from life-support machines to refrigeration for medicines.
• The international community, including various NGOs and UN agencies, often steps in to provide additional support, such as food, medical care, and psychological services, to those in shelters.
• Due to repeated conflicts, much of Gaza's infrastructure, including water and sewage systems, has been damaged, leading to public health concerns.
• Civilians attempting to leave conflict zones like Gaza often face numerous obstacles, including border closures, lack of safe passage, and bureaucratic hurdles.
• Multiple organizations working in the same area can lead to coordination challenges, resulting in duplicated efforts or gaps in aid distribution.

The ordeal endured by Palestinian children and their families who had to escape from their residences.

Yingst emphasizes the severe psychological toll on families and children within Palestinian territories, underscoring the anguish caused by continuous assaults and forced displacement. He portrays the immobilizing fear that grips children growing up in war-torn areas, as well as the profound grief of those who endure the death of relatives or see their homes destroyed.

He narrates how families originating from Palestine contend with the mental strains associated with the conflict. The book describes the profound psychological turmoil of children who, having witnessed extensive destruction and the perishing of lives, became too petrified to venture out of their residences. He also emphasizes the profound sorrow experienced by families who have endured the tragedy of losing several loved ones simultaneously in a blast, an event that has changed their lives forever.

Context

• Access to healthcare is often limited in conflict zones. Psychological services are scarce, making it difficult for families to receive necessary mental health support.
• The stress and fear experienced can also manifest in physical health issues, such as headaches, stomachaches, and weakened immune systems.
• The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has a long history, with roots tracing back to the early 20th century, involving disputes over land, national identity, and political sovereignty. This ongoing conflict has led to numerous wars, uprisings, and periods of intense violence, deeply affecting the daily lives of those in the region.
• Children who experience such trauma may face difficulties in education and social relationships, impacting their future opportunities and quality of life.
• In many cultures, including Palestinian society, family is a central unit of social and emotional support, so losing multiple family members can have profound cultural and emotional repercussions.

The struggle for dominance in the realm of information and narrative shaping.

Yingst emphasizes the conflict over narrative dominance, illustrating how Israel and Hamas each sought to promote their own version of events. He examines the strategies utilized by all parties involved, underscoring the difficulties that reporters encounter in maintaining impartiality while navigating through an overwhelming amount of data.

Both Israel and Hamas were actively involved in a struggle to influence the narrative and disseminate their own versions of the occurrences.

In his examination, Yingst delves into the complexities of the propaganda battles fought by the rival groups, highlighting their efforts to control the prevailing stories. He provides an account of the meticulous record-keeping concerning the heinous acts perpetrated by Hamas, underscoring proof of their savage tactics, including the exploitation of civilians as protective barriers, and at the same time, Israel endeavors to rationalize its defensive measures by underlining the imperative to diminish the danger Hamas presents.

He delves into the methods Hamas employs to influence international perspectives. He illustrates their struggle to be acknowledged as a group opposing occupation, emphasizing the difficulties Palestinians face amid aggression originating from Israel.

Israeli reports indicate that Hamas employs civilian shields to guard against assaults.

Yingst details how Israel meticulously gathered and disseminated evidence of the heinous crimes committed by Hamas, including the massacres that occurred at the beginning of the conflict and the use of civilians as human shields in warfare. He investigates the methods by which the Israeli military disseminated graphic videos and provided comprehensive intelligence briefings to underscore the brutality exhibited by their opponents, aiming to expose their inhumanity and garner international support for their defense initiatives.

The writer acknowledges the challenges in verifying these claims due to the restricted access to Gaza and the possibility that the data may be biased, given that it comes from one of the parties involved in the conflict. He examines the proof offered by Israel, noting that while it can often be verified through separate sources, sometimes it lacks the essential background needed to fully understand its importance.

Other Perspectives

• Accusations of using human shields are serious and require a high standard of proof, which may not be met by the available evidence, especially if it is not independently verified.
• The focus on Hamas' alleged crimes may overshadow the broader context of the conflict, including the conditions in Gaza that contribute to the cycle of violence and the impact of the Israeli blockade.
• The strategy of exposing an opponent's inhumanity through graphic content could backfire, as it might draw criticism for the methods used to gather such intelligence or for the decision to publicize it.
• While verifying claims is indeed challenging due to restricted access, international organizations and human rights groups often conduct their own investigations which can corroborate or refute the claims made by one party in the conflict.
• The ability to verify evidence does not necessarily equate to an endorsement of the conclusions drawn from that evidence, as verification only confirms the authenticity of the evidence, not the interpretations attached to it.

Hamas’ attempts to shape the global narrative and gain sympathy for their resistance against occupation.

Yingst scrutinizes the strategies employed by Hamas to frame their actions as a legitimate struggle for freedom from Israeli dominance, with the goal of garnering international backing for the Palestinian cause. He underscores their utilization of social media, the creation of press releases, and interaction with sympathetic media representatives to disseminate their perspective and portray Israel's defensive measures in an unfavorable manner.

He analyzes the tactics used by Hamas to highlight the plight of Palestinian civilians, focusing on the devastation caused by the aerial bombardments and siege tactics of Israel. Yingst acknowledges the hardships faced by the people of Gaza, caught in the crossfire between a combative governing body and a powerful military force targeting their cityscapes, highlighting the uneven burden borne by civilians in these conflicts.

Practical Tips

• Start a virtual book club focused on reading works by authors from conflict zones, including Gaza, to foster empathy and awareness. This can be as simple as gathering a group of interested friends and selecting a book to read each month. Discussions can take place online through video calls or chat groups, allowing for a flexible and inclusive environment. Look for novels, memoirs, and poetry that give voice to those living in conflict areas to broaden your perspective.

Other Perspectives

• The strategy of framing the conflict as a simple binary between resistance and occupation could oversimplify the historical and geopolitical nuances that are essential to finding a sustainable resolution.
• Highlighting the suffering caused by Israeli actions without a balanced view of the provocations or security concerns that lead to such actions can present a one-sided narrative.
• The term "defensive measures" can be subjective, as what one party views as defense, the other may view as aggression, and vice versa.

Journalists face significant hurdles in maintaining impartiality as they deliver reports in circumstances rife with discordant details.

Yingst emphasizes the difficult conditions that journalists encounter while striving to collect information amidst the intense rivalry surrounding the conflicts. He discusses the moral quandaries involved in reporting accurately while ensuring that neither the dissemination of propaganda is facilitated nor the well-being of civilians and captives is put at risk.

He recounts the strain he felt from conflicting perspectives, as proponents of Israel reproached him for failing to sufficiently condemn the hostility from Hamas, whereas those in favor of Palestine were dissatisfied with his reports emphasizing the actions of the Israeli forces. Yingst shares his encounters with cyberbullying, highlighting the perils associated with the perception of favoring a specific group, even though he consistently strived for neutrality.

Context

• Journalists in conflict zones often face life-threatening situations, including exposure to gunfire, bombings, and other forms of violence, which can impede their ability to gather information safely.
• Propaganda involves biased or misleading information used to promote a particular political cause or point of view. Journalists must be vigilant to avoid becoming tools for such agendas, which can distort public perception and understanding.
• Social media platforms amplify diverse opinions and criticisms, making it challenging for journalists to maintain a balanced narrative without facing backlash from various groups.
• There are often limited legal protections against cyberbullying, and journalists must navigate ethical considerations in responding to online harassment while maintaining professional standards.

The author grapples with ethical dilemmas and personal experiences in the course of covering the conflict.

Yingst reflects on the ethical quandaries and personal challenges encountered during his coverage of the hostilities. He talks about the psychological toll taken by witnessing devastating occurrences, the unyielding duty to report with precision and compassion, and the difficulty of maintaining composure amidst the severity of conflict.

The psychological toll and danger experienced when reporting from the front line and witnessing the aftermath of attacks.

Yingst candidly portrays the perils and psychological impacts of frontline journalism, sharing his personal accounts of observing the consequences of assaults, conducting interviews with survivors surrounded by the remnants of destruction, and coming face to face with the harrowing evidence of human anguish. Trey Yingst recounts the deep psychological turmoil he endured while navigating a zone consumed by turmoil, the unending sensory overload from constant explosions and gunfire, and the enduring mental scars from seeing the destruction and death firsthand.

The writer describes his struggle with the persistent mental anguish of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), highlighting how the haunting visuals and sounds persist long after the events have ended. He discusses the emotional disconnection he experienced while deeply involved in reporting, highlighting the mental tactics he utilized to compartmentalize troubling events and maintain focus on his present duties.

Practical Tips

• Start a journal to document your observations and reflections on societal attitudes toward assault and trauma. Regularly writing down your thoughts can help you process complex emotions and develop a more nuanced perspective on the issue. You might note reactions to news stories, personal experiences, or conversations with others that reveal societal perceptions and misconceptions.
• Develop a personal mantra to counteract negative thoughts. Write a positive, affirming statement that resonates with you, such as "I am safe now," or "I control my peace." Repeat this mantra silently or aloud when experiencing flashbacks or anxiety, to help shift your mindset from past trauma to present safety.
• Develop a personal ritual to transition between roles and responsibilities. Choose an activity that signifies the end of one task and the beginning of another, such as a short walk, a specific song, or a breathing exercise. This ritual can serve as a mental signal to compartmentalize and shift focus, allowing you to leave behind emotions tied to the previous task and approach the next with a fresh perspective.

Reporters had the responsibility to cover events diligently to prevent escalating conflicts or unintentionally supporting the spread of false information.

Yingst reflected on the difficulties inherent in performing ethical journalism amidst a conflict charged with strong emotions and significant risks. He emphasizes the necessity of conveying accurate information with empathy for the grieving families, ensuring that no information is disclosed that could be exploited by the armed organization Hamas, thereby minimizing the potential for intensifying disputes among different factions.

He narrates occasions when he intentionally omitted explicit details or moderated the language in his coverage, placing a high priority on the moral aspects of discussing sensitive subjects. Yingst underscores the necessity of considering a variety of perspectives to maintain an equitable depiction that steers clear of reinforcing current prejudices or supporting harmful clichés.

Context

• Understanding cultural contexts and respecting local customs and norms are essential for journalists to report accurately and sensitively, avoiding misinterpretations that could lead to conflict.
• Disclosing specific locations or identities can endanger the lives of civilians, hostages, or military personnel, making them targets for armed organizations.
• Graphic or explicit details can traumatize audiences, especially those with personal connections to the conflict, so moderation helps protect viewers' mental health.
• Considering a variety of perspectives involves consulting multiple sources, including those directly affected by the conflict, experts, and neutral observers, to provide a comprehensive view of the situation.
• Persistent use of clichés can lead to entrenched societal views that are difficult to change. Ethical reporting seeks to prevent such long-term negative impacts by promoting nuanced narratives.

The author strove to maintain a neutral and empathetic stance towards all groups engaged in the strife.

Yingst acknowledges the continuous struggle to maintain objectivity and empathy while reporting on a conflict that strikes a chord personally yet is fraught with intricate political nuances. He delves into the importance of introspection about his predispositions to maintain unbiased journalism, concentrating on how conflict impacts people while avoiding partiality.

He reflects on the difficulty of reconciling the horrors he witnessed with the understanding that individuals from every faction have their own unique viewpoints and histories. Yingst emphasizes the significance of presenting information impartially, allowing the audience to form their own conclusions based on the facts, rather than conveying his own personal views or moral judgments.

The comprehensive overhaul of the book's material aims to provide a thorough analysis of the 2023 clashes involving Israel and Hamas, as well as the resulting consequences, highlighting the key themes and narratives explored by Trey Yingst. The book aims to explore the complexities embedded within the strife, highlighting the individual stories that are essential to its fabric and acknowledging the lasting impact on all participants.

Context

• In journalism, maintaining neutrality involves presenting facts without bias, ensuring that all sides of a story are represented fairly. This is crucial in conflict reporting to avoid influencing public opinion with personal biases.
• Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others, which can be challenging in conflict reporting as it requires balancing compassion with impartiality.
• Upholding unbiased journalism aligns with ethical standards that emphasize truthfulness, accuracy, and impartiality. Introspection is a tool that helps journalists adhere to these standards, especially in emotionally charged situations.
• Providing a balanced narrative involves giving voice to diverse experiences and ensuring that no single perspective dominates the discourse.
• In conflicts like those between Israel and Hamas, narratives are often deeply complex and multifaceted. Impartial reporting helps illuminate these complexities without oversimplifying or taking sides.
• The 2023 clashes may have introduced new elements or escalated existing tensions, requiring updated analysis to reflect current realities and shifts in power dynamics.
• By exploring these stories, the narrative acknowledges the complexity of the conflict, resisting oversimplification and encouraging a more nuanced understanding.