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Carl Deal is surely one of the most unique and admirable individuals I've ever met. And the more I grow to discover all of his many layers, the more impressed I am. Carl's kindnesses - unheralded and unannounced - are worthy of legend. His resourcefulness and creativity and appreciation for life are monumental. As an artist, Carl's perspective can be gentle, fierce, uncompromising, and heroic. And those four words are precisely how I might describe his character as well. Paula Stoeke Artist / Photographer - Santa Monica, California |
I don't know how to express my feelings to you but I am so thankful that you are one of my brothers now. You have done so much for me and I can't thank you enough for all that you have done, are doing and will do. If you weren't around I probably wouldn't be here. I wouldn't be where I am now mentally and physically. You have made me a much better person and your warm heart is like home to me. - 2008 Merry Christmas to you my brother. Alexey Alexander Dillon - My Little Brother |
Thanks for all that you have come to mean to our family, and of course most especially to Lexey. Cathy Dillon |
I have now known Carl for many years and as is often the case with my love of teaching photography, I've once again been so fortunate to make a good friend. I am happy to watch Carl's growth as a terrific landscape and fine art photographer, but I must say that it is his inherent beauty as a really true friend that surpasses everything else. I congratulate Carl on his continual striving effort both as a photographer and as a truly wonderful human being. Greg Gorman, Photographer - Los Angeles |
"All those who give of themselves, and in the giving receive the lavish abundance of the universe" To some extent, I've always felt one could "feel love" in a person. You sir are someone who radiates just that - Pure Love. You truly are a giver of all givers and are living a life that many men can only dream of. That is why on that night one could gaze around the room and see nothing but friends, of all different ages from all different walks of life, all there for you. I hope to one day be just like that. Happy Birthday Carl Deceased - December 22, 2009 |
Everyday God paints his canvas with the beauty that surrounds us as well as with opportunity. Conscious of this fact; love your life and live without fear, without doubt, and without regret. Be accepting of yourself and others while exuding passion with a sense for our creative majesty. Live with the knowedge of our creator while artistically and humbly searching for life's richness. We should all both treasure and respect our Mother Earth for its grace, power and vulnerable beauty. Unimaginable happiness befalls those who understand and practice this wisdom. Overlooked by so many; chasing life's abunance offers us self worth, forges a spirit which is free and content and gives us the World. With joy etched in the depths of our eyes and hearts, so it cleanses our soul. And therein, our insecurities about life will cease - our ambitions becomes a drive and our search a quest. I have known Carl for a few years now and it is a relationship that I will always cherish. A true friend, a fraternal brother, and a great scholar; Carl is a friend that has made an unmistakable impression on my life. I covet the guidance and experience he has given me throughout our time. A photographer by nature and a teacher at heart, Carl Deal is one who is truly enthusiastic about his life. He is a master of his craft as he has astutely taught me many things about lighting, color, composition, and design while also schooling me on the pace of technology. I owe him many thanks. Always a pupil to his philosophy, be it religious, political, or general, Carl has helped push me forward. Being an inspiration, he has changed my life as well as many others who know him. He provides us with various treasured memories. He is trustworthy, nurturing, kind, and has character that is unlike any other. But overall, Carl Deal is a great friend and this I will always hold dear! We have shared many laughs and conversations together and I always look forward to the next time we can share a glass of wine with each other, in a measuring cup of course! Theodore Patrick Johnson 3D Animation / DreamWorks Animation. Glendale, California |
Truly, a man's sincerest prayer is that he die after a time when he doesn't care about dying anymore. You see, he'd rather not relive another day because he has already soaked up the gravy this Earth has to offer. We are all loathesome of boredom and stagnation. But could we not tire of the thrill of roller coasters, the taste of good food, and the exhilaration of new love or mountain tops? I do not believe any person is so different from me as to not, at least occasionally, realize this truth that makes us sad and fear death when we believe we've not absorbed life as we could have. Occasionally, it occurs to me to look at the faces of strangers that are going in a different direction in halls and in cars and I wonder if theirs is a more direct and efficient route to a full life. But every single time I leave the presence of my friend Carl Deal, I wonder for quite a time afterward if I should not immediately change my path to follow his. Curtis Dean Herms, Attorney - Ft. Collins, Colorado |
I feel like a very fortunate person to have met such a great man as Carl. During these weeks Carl took me all over the United States and showed me how to enjoy life. This changed my perspective on how to live my life. Carl acts like he is just a simple man on the surface. Only he has many facets. This is one of the things I love about Carl. In some way he knows how to touch and encourage people in the right way at the right moment. Carl is a man who is true to himself and true to the many friends he has. --Jan "Juan" Bruggeman Amsterdam Metro PD, Organized Crime Unit - The Netherlands |
Carl Deal is a pretty amazing individual. In addition to being an expert photographer and a true personal friend, he is also someone that you can count on - completely. I can't tell you the number of times that I've asked him to play the role of "devil's advocate" in decisions that I have had to make in my personal and professional life. He's never given me bad guidance. He is a professional - as well as close and true friend that I care very much about. Troy Max Kimmel Chief Meteorologist, CBS- KEYE - Austin http://www.utexas.edu/depts/grg/kimmel/kimmelforecastlab.html |
Carl Deal does not simply take pictures, he creates art! Through his eyes - from his heart and soul, Carl shares a unique view that allows the world to see more than just a photograph - but his feelings regarding his subject. Carl has been a personal friend of mine for over 20 years. Were I to describe, in a single word, his personal relationships, his vocation, and his professionalism as a photographer, policeman, teacher, mentor and friend; that word would be PASSION! Carl loves life - he loves who he is, where he has been, where he is going and what he does for work and play. It occurs to me that I am who I am and I have achieved much of what I have become simply by having Carl Deal as my close personal friend! I wish him the greatest success in his every endeavor. James Christopher Nicola Navy SEAL Instructor - New World Order Spec. Operator Vice Squad - Houston Police Department - Retired |
Wild Geese from Dream Work by Mary Oliver It is such an honor and a pleasure to see your excellent, exquisite photos. You are the greatest shooter I know. What a gift. You are a magnificent spirit and your pictures are truly inspirational....Adieu, Lisa Mac, Award Winning Graphic Designer - Austin |
I love it when Carl tells me he is going on another one of his adventures. Because I know that when he gets back from some far corner of the world, he will have the most amazing pictures to share. His experiences come alive through his camera lens. Yes, Carl is an amazing photographer but beyond that he is an amazing person. He is the definition of a true friend and a genuinely caring human being. Thanks Carl, and keep shootin'! David Williams Former All-American Texas State Quarterback - San Antonio Former Director of Marketing- Sylvania Alamodome/Now Psychotropic Drug Dealer/Forrest Pharm. |
Carl Deal is one of a kind--an honest, kind, creative, supremely talented individual, and a person of some philosophical depth. Having known Carl H. Deal for well over a decade, I have the greatest respect for him as a person and as a professional. One thing that makes him unique is the diversity of his high professional-level training and experience. He is a law enforcement officer whom I have watched pass up the ranks to a Commander of Police, with stops along the way as patrol officer, narcotics investigator, detective, and shift supervisor. He is trained--and offers training--in a wide variety of police activities and responsibilities. To this he brings not only great intelligence, but unimpeachable principle and considerable common sense and wisdom. In addition, however, Carl is a very highly skilled and readable journalistic writer and documentary photographer. He has widely published work in both areas, including art exhibits of his stunning photography, which exhibits wonderful subject matter, composition, handling of light and color, and diversity of subject--from nature themes to candid pictures, documentaries, and more exotic subjects such as capturing the life of rural Bolivia and other places. He is a traveler and adventurer. More practically, he is called upon regularly to instruct the courses in Forensic Photography for the SWT Departments of Criminal Justice and Technology. Billy Moore Director of Public Affairs - Southwest Texas State University Former Mayor - City of San Marcos, Texas |
I am speachless, as always, with the many things you do - especially for what you do for other people. You are kind, generous and a good friend. I am not as eloquent with words as you are but your thoughful loyalty and dedication to your friends is monumental. Harlan Ray Bratcher - CEO, Armani Exchange, NYC, NY - www.ArmaniExchange.com |
Carl is one of those wonderful photographers who gives more than he takes. He gives his heart to the images he creates. He shoots straight to the soul of the subject. Many of his images are disturbing in the "grittiness" of their realism, and yet others take you to a world of breathtaking natural beauty. He gives of his talent and his knowledge he is open and willing to stimulate the love of photography in the young people who learn from him. Carl was the one who introduced me to the fascinating world of panoramic photography, for which I thank him dearly. Roger Moore |
At some point in life - we all come to a place and time when you wonder whether or not you should go on...if you know what I mean. When there was noone else, Carl was the only one there for me when I needed him. Carl picked up my pieces and put them back together again. I owe him everything. He is one of - no...the most tallented person I know. Carl is the best role model anyone could ever have. At a time in my life when I was struggling to find direction and purpose, I had the good fortune of meeting Carl Deal the Cop. Carl was then and is still to this day, a man that by his sound character, intelligence, and talent- has been an inspiration in every aspect of my life. Looking back over the past eleven years of our friendship, I can't help but reflect on his tireless and charismatic manner as he helped me to find my own way. In view of Carl's retirement from the Police Force, I find myself both sad and eagerly anticipating the remarkable things I know he is going to do. I have seen many of the breathtaking and extremely captivating photographs that Carl has taken. And I have seen the influence he has with young people who are eager to learn. This is a man who is on a collision course with fame and greatness. For me however, he has already achieved that status." Brett A. Jones United States NAVY SEAL - Norfolk, Virginia - Retired Highest Decorated Second Class Seaman in the Navy - 2002 Spec. Warfare Specialist - Israel/Iraq/Afghanistan/Pakistan |
Carl H. Deal is a rest-stop along life's road. Possessing within him this sort of devine exemption from the limitations of straying from the path of ultimate consciousness and eventual truth, he gives others solice for the moment and then sends them on their way, revived and exhilerated. He is the truest friend a person could ever have, and yet unlike so many who cannot balance genius with funcionality, Carl utilizes the two with the symphonic mastery of a great composer with the humility of a monk. I owe so much to my greatest friend Carl, and toast him whenever there is occasion to lift my glass. And moreover, I owe so much to the entity accountable for placing him in my life so early on. I am blessed that the greatest teacher I know, I can also call my greatest friend. Ryan Larsen Davis Cinematographer/Film Editor - Singularity and Oil Man- College Station |
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A person needs four things if he is to follow in the footsteps of Carl Deal: a large pair of shoes, a long stride, the life expectancy of a sea turtle, and the endurance of a child - a constant student of life, teacher to all, and most of all a friend. Tim Hanrahan Skydiver, Cinematographer, Adventurer, Ink Blot Test- Austin |
A great man once told me, "A true friend is someone who will be there anytime, anyplace for as long as you live." You are my "True Friend". I think of you as the father I never had. You have taught me, protected me, and you have shown me the world. I cannot thank you enough for everything you have done for me - you are my "True Friend". Joshua A. Yanity Eagle Scout, US Air Force, Wonder Dong - Kirkuk, Iraq/Beale AFB |
Carl's friendship has been like the wind at my back on a long hike. You continue along your journey unaware of the burden he has lifted and help he offers so subtley until you face his love and generosity. Taggart Cojan Sorensen Photographer/Historian/Assistant - Houston - http://taggartphotography.com/zp/ |
Carl helped me through the toughest part of my life. He was always there when I needed him and I will always be there when he needs me. His friendship means more than anything in the world to me. Carl is a very special friend and I will love him always. David Dale Neuhaus - 1983 Father of two- Super Hero-2003 |
Webster Dictionary says; Carl is a true unconditional friend no matter the circumstance and does not pass judgement on those with different views. He holds all people as equals and exudes kindness from an international perspective from travels abroad. Just as it says in the bible, "Ye without sin, cast the first stone" and "love thy neighbor as thy self". Carl truly understands the magnitude of true friendship. My family and I appreciate Carl Deal more than he could probably ever know and or that I could put into words. May God always Bless Carl. Jeffery Wade Latham and Family - Minister, Westover Baptist Church Bush Appointee- Texas Brain Injury Advisory Board - 1998 - San Marcos Brain Trauma Intervention Advocate - www.Traumatec.com |
Carl Deal does not measure his successes on dollars saved or awards earned- His life can be tracked by lives changed and people saved. Power is the ability to influence others- Carl's influence has propelled people far past where there own motivations would allow them to go. It was Carl's gentle yet stern pride and confidence in me that helped me to see my own strength which has taken me to where I am today. Lt.Timothy J. Lawlor, 25 FTS USAF Adventurer/Traveler/War Hero, F-16 Fighter Pilot Instructor- US Air Force - Arizona |
I have known Carl Deal since the Spring of 1999. He was at that time an instructor in the Department of Technology where I studied. My first impression was that he was a warm and caring person willing to give the time necessary to answer any questions that anyone might have in life. My first personal contact with Carl occurred when he asked me to help him with the Alcohol Task Force, educational and advertising campaign. Since that time I have learned, witnessed, and observed that Carl is person of great character- giving his time, support, and in times financial assistance to young people finding their way. It is in my opinion he is one of the great people you meet in life who will always be there when you need him - all you have to do is ask. 08, August 2003 - Too many times I have started to write this letter and stopped. I feel the need to thank you - but have been unsuccesful in thinking of the right words. In the past five years you have become more than family to me - and as you know closer than anyone related to me. You have been, and continue to be; mentor, friend, and confidant. I look at your world and see that you surround yourself with the things and people you love. I feel more than privileged to be a part of that. I feel privileged to call you family. Your spirit, love of life, and understanding are infectious. I can only hope that one day I can have the kind of influence that you have had on me. You have and continue to be my favorite role model. Thank you. Christopher Morell Murphy Photography Student-TSU/Poster Model for the SMPD Alcohol Task Force - San Marcos United States Army - Infantr - Ft. Benning, Georgia |
When most of my friends were drowning in a sea of hypocrisy and hatred, racism and turmoil, there were but a few educated, strong-willed, fearless ones who I could confide in. These elevated minds showed me what I could not see. They taught me to respect myself and others, to give until it hurts; and above all else, cherish freedom of your soul and of the people. Because of these promising few I am now an individual with means of my own to change the future. Carl Deal is one of those men who I could confide in. And I thank him and love him immensely. Christopher Morris Theatrician/Volunteer/Activist/Friend of Sinn Fein - Son of the Mayor - New York City |
There aren't many people you can be sure you will be friends for life with. But for me, Carl Deal is just that. Carl became a mentor as my photography professor at SWT in 1994. I only had one semester at SWT, but his wisdom, influence, and friendship are still with me today. An amazing photographer, an excellent teacher and a genuinely good person, Carl is always professional with eveything he does. He is absolutly motivating, inspiring, caring, supportive, and respectful. I am proud to be his friend. Kirk Adam Stockstill Photographer/Roady and Music Manager/Painter - Cute Dad- Austin - www.stockstillimages.com |
I knew shortly after meeting Carl for the first time that he was an extrodinarialy special indivudial, full of some of the most prized and valued characteristics available in a human being. In the short amount of time that I have known Carl I have recognized two things. One is his phenominal abality to photograph the world as he sees it and the other is his focus on friendship. It is obvious to me that the bond of friendship is something that he cherishes deeply and nurtures constantly. I know that I will always have a friend in Carl. That is a rare thing and something that I feel fortunate and blessed enough to have discovered. Justin Rogers - Round Rock Student of Life/Metal Band Rocker/One Fine Geographic Apple |
Carl Deal possesses a zeal and passion for life and a pursuit of all things good, that I have seen in few men. His unequaled world views and experiences give him the insight to perform duties and tasks that compliment the existence of each person he comes into contact with. Friendship is unparalleled in Deal's life, as he is Man's friend and companion on the road of life. Every Man is dealt a fair hand as Carl's compassion and love for life sees through all diversity. Accepting every person for their inner beauty, Deal sees more in one person than most of us do in whole communities. I am proud to call Carl my friend and brother in this world. Every man should be so lucky. J. Clayton Stansberry, M.M. |
"A few years ago I took a class at Texas State that changed my perspective on many things in life. It was not just the class, but the person teaching it, Carl Deal. With his communication skills that can reach anyone, Carl can be considered a true mentor to all - so focused on life and helping people. Through his amazing photography or a simple smile, Carl touches all in his path. Carl Deal is a genuine person who I have deep respect for - a true friend. Joey Lumsden Traveler, Bobcat Master, Hound, GIS Guru - Austin |
I've known you since I was in High School. What can I tell you that you You're one of those people that I like to tell others "He's a friend of mine." What higher praise could I give than to say that? You are a friend who has influenced my life and I'm glad. I know other people feel the same as I do. If ever, it is you, my friend, Carl Deal. Louis Doiron |
Sometimes I wonder what my life would be like if I'd never met Carl. I wonder if I would be as dedicated to photography and to success. Would I be as open to the world around me? Would I feel as loved and happy as I do today? Ever since the first day I met Carl I have been inspired by him - by his love of life and his extreme dedication to people and photography. Carl has truly served as a catalyst in my life and I can't thank him enough - for the great times we had and for his devoted friendship to me. I know that I havn't known Carl all that long, but we have been through a lot together. I really feel like we connected in some unique way and it makes me the happiest person in the world to know that I have his friendship. Carl is very special to me and I cherish every moment we spend together. David Lawrence Heisler Photographer - Shell Kid - Wild Hair Traveler Finding His own Truth - www.DavidHeisler.com |
I will never forget the day I first met Carlitos at the San Marcos Outlet Mall. A big ass cop walked up to me with his eyes hidden behind a pair of sunglasses, and then he called me by my name. That was the last thing I thought a cop on duty was going say. Now I know that the hidden eyes behind the sunglasses were the eyes of a sensitive and caring man who can catch the spirit - feelings, movements, flavors, and even sounds through a camera. He gives life to his photographs. So, if you are ever lucky enough to visit his gallery and get too close to one of Carl's photos, be careful because it can bite you!!! It really does. Thanks to my friend Carl for sharing the world with the world. Juan David Fernandez Talented Musician, Artist and Latin Lover, LA-33 - Bogota, Colombia |
Carl's love of people and his passion for the environment have combined to make his photographs among the finest being produced today. Carl's talent with the camera and in the darkroom make him a true Renaissance man. In his photographs the viewer witnesses the love and passion Carl has for all the elements that make up this earth. Dr. Ralph Borchers |
Writing a description or appreciation about someone is usually a quick task with a few simple kind words. I have been putting this off for the fact that it seems a giant task, but even that compliments the diversities and complexities entailed by Carl. Carl was my photography lab instructor back in 1997, and I found him to be a gold mine as far as photography goes. He would answer my questions in ways that would send me on a task of creativity, never just a yes or no. He challenged me from the start, yet with a loose judgement and professional demeaner. We later swapped "war stories" once I knew he was also in a fraternity back in his college days, and we had many laughs over stories you just don't tell your teachers. That's why my chin hit the ground when he came to the lab in his police uniform and just smiled as if "hee hee, I gotcha." That was a time for me when cops were still the "bad guys" and my tolerance for them was nonexistant. Wondering just how much incriminating information I had told him, he sat back and laughed and said, "Tony, we're friends, and this changes nothing." To this day he remains the only police officer who I can truly call my friend, and knowing him has led me to actually respecting and appreciating the vital role which officers play in our society and world. Carl is one of those people, well, that's just it, he's just one of those people who is NOT one of anything. He's an eccentric man and has style at that, yet he's not pompous in any way and seems to know how and when to say just enough. In fact, sometimes he's too damn quiet and you really do wonder what in the hell he's thinking. When amongst friends, Carl seems to take a fatherly backseat to conversations until a subject strikes a chord of interest with him. Then he adds his experience and knowledge enhancing the conversation and taking it to a new level. It's almost like he's waiting until he's interested, yet he's not waiting for you to reach his level. This distinction is of utmost importance. Although Carl is from Royalty, by no means does he portray himself in this way. Rarely do you come across a person of such experience and background who is not speaking down to you or in a condescending tone. In fact, Carl has 3 tones: 1. "The Conversationalist tone" When he is engaged in the conversation and excited to be a part of it. 2. "His distracted tone" When he's doing three or more tasks simultaneously and really not paying attention to anything else. 3. "The Smart Ass tone" whch would not be as rich without the other two. Carl finds humor is most words or everyday objects people merely accept and pass without notice. He's super observant. He is not arrogant, very slow to judge, and opinionated only once his research is done. This has changed my arguments to this day because I also desire to speak from experience and have credible resources to stand on. Yes, being around Carl makes you want to increase your knowledge, travel more for sure, and slow down a bit a just enjoy life and friends We have had numerous conversations on God and I must say Carl listens better than most and makes it possible to "discuss" rather than argue. Most people are trying to be "right" or win you over to their side - not Carl. He just wants to hear your side, see where you're coming from, and then that's it. No surprises or expectations. His hospitality has been nothing but open arms, and his house is a place I know I can always go in time of need or just to relax and sit on the porch. He even let me set up my welding/blacksmithing shop in his old carriage house and let me use it like my own for months. But my favorite time shared with Carl has to be the 8 days spent with him and another friend over in Europe. I showed up at the crack of dawn in my backpacking attire and shaved head ready to explore numerous countries. He had no idea I would show up and he refused to let me stay in a hostel. In the relaxing city we were in, I must say it was nice getting to know Carl in an entirely different world. He was not only the same genuine Carl, but he was even MORE himself and I saw him truly relaxed and happier than I had seen him before. I was of course the rowdy one stomping on foreign soil and around foreign women for the first time ever, and he got the biggest kick out of watching me let loose to Carl and I share different opinions on many ssues, but because of him my opinions have either confirmed themselves or opened to include even more ideas and people. The funny part is my view of Carl doesn't really consider all his accomplishments or all he has given to the community, the United States, the World, to photography, etc. All those are great but they are just rungs on the ladder we call Carl. He is not his achievements, his achievements are mere ripples from the splash of his true self. He invests in what he loves, and I respect him for that and so much more Carl Deal is truly a geniune friend, and I thank him for sharing his world with me Tony Lazarine Christian, Artist, PI on his 21st Birthday and Walking Smile |
Mi Padre:You are like a father to me. You are always there to give me advice when I need it and a little nudge in the right direction. Unfortunately I treat you a little like I treat my father, in that I hardly see or talk to you. I consider you a great friend and I have always looked up to you. Words of wisdom that you have planted in my head, like a seed, are always popping up when I need them the most. Even though I don't see you every day, your spirit and energy is always here. I just thought I need to tell you this. Didn't know if you knew or not. Your Friend, Spirit of the Land |
Carl, you are such an incredible amazing person; so many people are influenced by you and all of the great, inspiring things you do that make your life so interesting. Even your calm presence and listening ears(especially when I'm around) are very comforting abd a delight to be around. Thank you so much for being so wonderful and being in my life. I really do appreciate you and everything you do. Dance as though no one is watching you - Love as though you have never been hurt before - Sing as though no one can hear you - Live as though heaven is on earth. May you live all the days of your life. Lauren Boyle David's Once Upon a Time Gal |
Thank you so much for giving us your time here every Tuesday and Thursday. I was told by many that this was the best and most interesting photography class to take here at Texas State and I was never disappointed. I definately learned the most here out of all of my photography classes, and had the most fun. You pushed our minds and hearts to see the world in a different way, and I'll never forget that. Thanks so much for everything. I am encouraged to leave this class with a sense of inspiration and knowledge. Awesome class! I am working now for the Pedagog and hope to do so much more in photography. Call me if youever need an intern/assistant/gopher. Jessica Yandle Texas State Photography Student |
We don't know how we can begin to thank you for all of the generosity and kindness that you have shown David over the past couple of years. The letter of recommendation that you composed for Greg was by far the most thoughtful and magnanimous note we've ever seen, which truly reflects your admirable nature as professor, mentor, and friend. It is most certainly to your credit that David has gained experience and talents as a young photographer, while still in school. And, it is also, undeniably, through your friends and contacts, that David has achieved access to such a vital network and an unbelieveable opportunity to start his profession with Greg Gorman. We applaud you as great professor, fantastic mentor, excellent photographer, best friend, and all aroundwinning guy!. You have been an excellent role model to our son in so many ways, aw we're sure you have been to countless other students at San Marcos. We hope that the school appreciates the gem it has in you. Judy and Rob Heisler Shell Kids |
I want to acknowledge you for your continued dedication to empowering artistic creativity and vision. It is clear that you are an excellent teacher and artist with a commitment to the field of photography and creative research. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of your students and for the inspiration you give in your work. It is a privilege to know that you are a part of my network of enthusiasm for the advancement of photographic education in our culture. I wish you continued success in all of your future endeavors Susan Kae Grant Department of Visual Arts-Texas Women's University |