PETER SHANKMAN
| POSTED ON July 21st, 2011 | 277 COMMENTS | + ADD YOUR COMMENT |
In the early spring of 1999, I was living in a studio the size of a pizza on 43rd Street and 10th Avenue. It was a cold day, and I was walking into my building against a cold wind. As I’m opening the door (I had a doorman who didn’t do anything at the time) I hear the quietest and meekest “Mew” that you could ever hear. I look down, and there’s this shivering ball of fur staring up at me. I couldn’t just leave here there, as pitiful and small as she was. So I picked her up. She immediately scratched me, then looked up at me with those eyes. That set the tone for the next 13 years.
I figured it was good Karma to save her life, and that became her name: Karma.
Karma was my longest relationship, by far. She was there for me whenever I came home from a business trip, meowing her indignant “I’m hungry, pay attention to me” meow.
She kept me humble. I came home the day I sold HARO and was all like “My life is going to change, this is awesome, I’m so awesome, wow, this is amazing,” and I walk in to my apartment to the sight of Karma having puked all over the front hallway. It’s hard to be pompous as you’re on your knees cleaning up cat puke.
Karma… Karma was my girl, for better or worse. She outlived so many more of her nine lives. If there was a cat health problem, Karma figured out a way to get it. She had a hyperactive thyroid once, which required her to get radioactive iodine. She was a terrorist threat for three weeks, as she was radioactive.
She had some kind of kidney thing, where she had to be fed by a feeding tube for three weeks. Meagan’s first month on the job, and she finds herself feeding a cat through a feeding tube. Not what she signed up for as my assistant, for sure.
I was at Newark Airport this afternoon when I got the call from Meagan. She was watching Karma and called me – Karma wasn’t responsive – She was just sleeping, and nothing Meagan did would rouse her. Meagan brought her to the vet, and said she’d call me.
She called me two hours before my flight, and put the vet on. The vet told me that it was her time. She had a tumor on her lung, it was preventing her from eating, and she’d lost 20% of her body weight in two weeks.
I cancelled my trip, and headed back to the city. To cancel a speech 36 hours before it? That goes against everything in my professional life, but you know what? Family is family. And you take care of your family.
It was just my girl’s time. She went peacefully, and she felt no pain. It was just time.
Thank you, Karma, for being there for me as long as you were. You were the constant in my ever-changing life. You kept me humble. You were, without any question, my girl. No matter what happened, you, with your brother NASA, were always there. NASA is alone tonight, sleeping on my bed, confused that you’re not there with him.
You’ll be missed, Karma. I’ll always have a place in my heart for you.
Goodbye, my girl. I love you.
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….
Author unknown…
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I am so sorry, Peter. She was a beautiful girl and she was lucky to have you. You’re a good dad. |
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Karma’s life was rich because you loved her and thousands of people thought about her. Your life is rich because she spent a third of your life in it. My condolences. |
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Peter, I am so sorry to read this. I have followed along with you and your stories of Karma for years. She lived a blessed life. Hugs to you. xx |
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Peter, I’m sorry for your loss. I enjoyed hearing your comments about Karma over the years. She was quite the girl. |
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So sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing your wonderful tribute to Karma. |
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Oh, Peter…. |
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I saw your tweet regarding Karma, and had to reply. I am so sorry for your loss. Pets really are family members, and its painful when they depart. My heart goes out to you. |
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For those of us who thrive on the business environment, pets are silmultaneously illogical and completely a requirement. Family. I am very sorry for your family’s loss. |
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Oh Peter, you reduced me to tears. Time heals, but it takes it own sweet one. Please know you have friends around the world who ache with you and for you. |
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With great love comes great loss. I am so sorry, Peter. What a gift her life has been…thank you for sharing her with us~ xo |
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I’m so sorry. We don’t get them long enough. Our love for them is what makes their lives [and ours] rich. I just hugged my dog and cat. |
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All I can say is I understand your loss and hope you and NASA stop hurting and begin to smile when you think of her. |
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So sorry to hear of ur loss! Prayers ur way and may u one day be reunited w/dear sweet Karma! Sounds like u were a wonderful dad to her and she was lucky to have found u… cats do pick their owners!! |
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The pain of losing a pet is more real than non-pet-owners can ever understand. What a sweet tribute. She’s missing you as much as you miss her, I’m sure. |
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Sorry for your loss Peter. Brings back memories of loved ones who I grew up with. Unconditional love says it all. Thank you for sharing |
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Touching, sorry for your loss, this blog will touch so many hearts, thank you |
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So sorry to hear. Your story of her brought tears to my eyes. Good call on going back to be with her in her last hours, I’m sure shes enjoying rainbow bridge :) |
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I am so sad and so sorry about Karmal! Your heart will heal but you will always miss your baby girl. Be blessed and allow yourself to be sad! Dianne |
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Peter – I’m sorry to hear about Karma – may your memories carry you through this difficult time. |
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Oh Peter. I’m sorry. I had a similar experience right after we moved. It’s very sad. How is Nasa handling it? Thinking of you! xoxL |
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It never easy to say goodbye to one of the great loves of your life but think of how you both grew by your relationship. I’m sure Karma’s spirit will be looking out for you. |
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So many of us have been there. My cat, Pookie passed just recently. It’s so ridiculously hard to lose them. Be well. |
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So sorry Peter, I have had cats since I was a kid and had to say goodby to a few, it is always difficult. Hope NASA is not feeling too lonely. |
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So sorry to hear this Peter! I still miss my little one. Best to you & NASA. |
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So sorry for your loss. You are a great pet dad who has his priorities in order and that is refreshing to see. She’ll be waiting for you at the Bridge and romping until then. RIP Karma. |
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I can never read the Rainbow Bridge poem without choking up. I know all too well how it is when it’s Time, but it’s terrible. |
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I am so sorry to hear of your loss, you just don’t get used it. I have had many pets of all kinds, some we get closer to than others.They have souls that touch ours. God Bless-her spirit lives on. |
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I’m sorry for your loss, Peter. Terrible day, but she knew you loved her. Be well. |
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Karma had the absolutely correct take on life in regards to entitlement, food and snuggles. She was one of the most well-loved cats in the world; she deserved to be. |
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So sorry for your loss Peter. You gave Karma a great life and she will be missed :( |
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Peter what a cutie she was. All the best getting through the pain and grief. |
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This brought tears to my eyes! I’m so sorry for your loss. Karma was very fortunate to have such a caring “dad.” My own cat is 13 and I just don’t know what I’ll do without her when her time comes. |
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I’ll admit I’m not a cat lover but I do feel for you. I’m so sorry for your loss. Your love for her is evident and I’m sorry you’re in so much pain. |
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Peter – She’ll always be by your side now, in ways she couldn’t be before. Many, many hugs for you (and NASA). |
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So sorry, Peter. Have been reading your tweets about Karma and NASA for so long that I know how much of part of you they are. |
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Peter, I completely understand your love and devotion to Karma. May she rest in peace. |
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I’m so sorry. As an animal lover and one who has lost much beloved dogs and cats, I sympathize. As difficult as it was, it’s so fortunate you were able to be with Karma at the end. Peace. |
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Thank you for sharing! This is really beautiful … And so true. It filled my eyes with tears. I love the part about how they keep you humble! |
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As I’m reading this I’m bawling like a baby. I lost my cat Rubee in 2001 and it crushed me. Even all this time later it still breaks my heart. I’m so sorry for your loss. |
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I’m so sorry for your loss, Peter. She was as lucky to have you as you were to have her. |
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Peter, so sorry to hear about your loss. Karma was lucky to have spent so much time with you, though I am sure it doesn’t seem like enough now. |
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Peter, I’m sorry for your loss. I’m glad you and Karma had so much time together. |
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So sorry for your loss, Peter, although she’ll always be with you and waiting for you. We’re so lucky to have these wonderful animals in our lives, aren’t we?? |
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Oh, Peter, I’m so sorry to hear this. I know you love your cats so dearly, and they love you, too. She knew how you felt about her, that’s for sure. Take care of yourself. |
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So sorry to hear about your loss! She was such a lucky lady to have someone who gave her as much love as you did! |
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I’m sorry for your loss, Peter. You’re right – pets are family, and it’s just as hard losing a pet as it is a family member. My thoughts are with you. |
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You’re right, family is family. We feel that way about our two four-legged kids. So sorry for your loss. I bet she never had an unhappy day in her life! |
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Thank you for sharing this very personal loss with us. It is always so hard to lose a trusted companion and friend. She will remain in your heart always. Don those running shoes and be prepared. |
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Our furry family members are with us for far too little time. Bless you for giving her a second chance at a great life… and for making her part of yours. |
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Also wiping away tears …I’m so sorry for your loss Peter. My “baby” kitty is 17 years old now and I do not look forward to any day without her. You wrote a beautiful tribute! |
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Oh, Peter — I’m so sorry to hear the news! You’re right — family is family. She had a good life because of you. |
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I’m so sorry, Peter –Karma has been such an active part of the HARO family that I felt as if I knew her personally. You were both lucky to have each other! |
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Oh Peter. I am so sorry. Pets are so much more than animals. She was very lucky to have you as you were to have her. |
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Peter, I’m so sorry to hear this.it is so sad. I lost a cat a few month ago and your story remind me to my cat. be strong and I am very sorry for your family’s loss. |
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So sorry to hear of your loss. It seems so unfair that they cannot share more time with us! |
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I read this last night and through my tears I couldn’t think of what to say. It’s heartwarming and sad at the same time.You expressed your thoughts so eloquently. |
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It’s sad losing a member of your family, but when the time comes you know it’s the best decisions. So sorry for your loss Peter. |
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Adam, I’m sorry to hear of your loss. I lost my cat of 17 years a while back and it was very sad. I still miss her. You were a wonderful guy for taking her in and giving her a great home. Chris |
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So sorry for the loss of your companion. May the memories of many happy times be of comfort to you now. |
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I’m so sorry for your loss Peter. Karma was lucky to have a friend like you who cared so much for her well being. |
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You beautifully expressed what a cat can bring to anyone’s life, even people who don’t yet know they’re cat lovers. Take care of yourself and NASA. |
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I’m sorry to hear that Peter. It’s hard when you lose a pet, they are part of your family. |
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So sorry, Peter. My sisters in California lost their kitty Maggie yesterday as well. Karma and Maggie will have a wonderful time together over the Rainbow Bridge. |
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Peter, No words can replace the unconditional love we receive from our furry lovers! I too have an older cat and can’t bear to see my Willow go. Peace be with you :) |
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I am so sorry to hear that Karma passed. It is wonderful you could be with her and that she passed peacefully. She goes back into the “big love” but part of her energy will remain with you for ever. |
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I have a twin to Karma, named Asia, who is sitting across my keyboard right now as I’m trying to type this. Sorry for the loss. They do worm their way into our hearts. |
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Peter, I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. Your post brought tears to my eyes. You could feel the loving pouring out of your for Karma. May she rest in peace. Jessica |
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Peter — what a beautiful tribute to Karma. You are obviously a great cat dad and both you and Karma were fortunate to have each other. Sorry for your loss. |
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I empathize, applaud you for your care of Karma, and send sincerest sympathies. |
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I am sorry. I’ve had many cats and dogs over the years and so have loved many and lost many to age, illness and death. It never gets easier. My heart goes out to you. |
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I’m so sorry for your loss. I teared up reading your post – it’s a day us pet owners fear and dread. Hug NASA extra tight – it sounds like you both need it right now. -Kat |
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I’m so sorry for your loss . It’s hard to say goodbye to a loved one and often even harder to share the news. Thank you for sharing this story. I will definitely miss your Karma anecdotes. Take care. |
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Sorry for your loss. I’ve lost many wooly ones, big and small. It is never an easy process. |
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Peter, I’m so sorry. Karma is still with you in spirit, though; she always will be. And soon you will hear another tiny “mew…” |
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Peter, |
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oh, that’s terrible, peter. there’s really not much else to say but sorry. so, so sorry. karma will come back to you … it (she) always does. |
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Sooooo sorry for your loss Peter! I understand how close she was to your heart, and always will be. She is a lucky cat to have someone who cared so much for her in this life! |
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In our heads, we know that we are likely to outlive our pets. In our hearts, we’re never ready to lose them. Condoldences. |
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Peter, I am so sorry for your loss. I am so glad you found the “Rainbow Bridge” . I believe… Warmest thoughts coming your way during this very difficult time. |
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I am really sorry to hear about it, Peter. She was very special…very good to be around. My condolences. |
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So sorry to hear this…we love our animals unconditionally, just like they love us unconditionally. We’re glad you got to be there to say goodbye to Karma. Your friends at Lucky Dog Creative |
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Peter – I’m so sorry for your loss. I wish there was something that I could say to ease it for you. Karma was not only a beautiful cat, she was a beautiful soul and will be missed! |
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So sorry Peter. That was a tough post to read. Another reminder of the inevitable feelings and emotions in store for our family as well…..in the not-too-distant future. All the best. |
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Very sorry for your loss, Peter. As you said, “Family is family. And you take care of your family.” She was lucky to have such a great family. |
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Dear Peter—I am so sad that you lost your baby girl. What a wonderful life you both had together as you rescued each other. My warmest thoughts and prayers are with you and NASA. XOXOX |
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I’m so sorry for you loss. I went through the same thing last fall. I know how you feel. Hang in there. Karma had a wonderful life, and you are a great guardian. |
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Dear Peter, My friend Dyana Valentine sent me your post knowing I lost my dear dog and heart companion Sienna after nearly 18 years in January. I so appreciate your saying “family is family” and cancelling your speech to be with her. My heart goes out to you. In the week Sienna was dying, I dreamed she told me she was going “to write another book.” Right after she left her body, I had an amazing experience of her “talking” to me about what she wanted to say and it resulted in a short book “Sweet Sienna’s Divine Download & Secrets of Ascension.” It is a dog’s experience of death, and I’m sure it is not much different for a beloved cat.. Let me know if you’d like me to send it to you. You can email me at gail@realspeaking.com. (Yes, friends said, well, if anyone’s dog was going to speak, it would be mine! :)) |
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Peter, You should read “Homer’s Odyssey,” true story about a blind cat in Miami. Karma’s life began as Homer’s did. And their journey very similar. Hang in there. Jen |
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I am so touched by your words. Especially when you say family is family. You are a good man. Karma was lucky. You created your own good Karma when you took her in. |
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Sincere condolences on the loss of your loved one. Karma lives on in your kindness to all. |
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May you find happiness in all the good times and wonderful memories of Karma. She is physically gone, but her spirit will always be with you. |
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The loss of someone dear is always hard. Give yourself time, healing takes much longer than we think. Keep a cheery picture of Karma nearby to remind you of her. You are in our thoughts. |
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So sorry for your loss, Peter. Thank you for your touching blog post. You did the right thing cancelling your business trip. |
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So very sorry to hear this, Peter. I hope over time the pain of loss becomes eclipsed by the joyful memories you and NASA share of your beloved Karma. |
PETER TO SPEAK
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