If anyone was able to save the previous discussion with The Somedays Book Club and Author before the the Oprah Boards revamped, please post it here. Posts from various people would be appreciated.

Many of us would like to revisit the book and the discussion--it has been Number 1 on the New York Times Bestseller's List for almost two months now. If you haven't read it...check it out...you will be glad you did.

Thank you in advance for your time and cooperation.

Babs, this is great! I started reading the book, and school got in the way somehow.

I am going to pick up on reading it again when I finish APFOM, probably by the weekend.

I do not have discussins saved, though.

Thanks for starting this thread, Babs. I am on chapter 14, Verbs and other Freedoms (God is a verb).

While I am enjoying the book very much, I am trying to see if I can put some of the things that I am ready about into my daily life. For instance, on page 192 Papa is telling Mack "...All I am telling you is that reconciliation is a two way street, and I have done my part, totally, completely, finally. It is not the nature of love to force a relationship but it is the nature of love to open the way".

So, I'm thinking that the way is open for me or for anyone else, but I'm trying to wrap my brain around what the task is to be a part of that total and complete reconciliation.

On that same page Papa says that "men are such idiots sometimes". I have to say that I feel much like an idiot throughout most of this book. Perhaps, I am doing what Dee did in Lisey's Story; I'm trying too hard to overthink it.

Are you guys planning to discuss the book in August. I am planning on reading this one in August. I'll have "A Prayer for Owen Meany" finished by then.

I had started to read "The Shack" and then put it aside, when we were reading it together before. I found that school/work was too intense and that I lacked the focus I felt I needed to get into the book. Hopefully, now's a good time for me to get into it!

I'm not good at reading 2 books at once!

If anyone reading The Shack now wants to have an open discussion here that would be great. I am hoping one of our members that saved our discussion from Oprah Boards will post it..it would be great for you all reading it now....Paul gave us such good insights into the characters and story.....

Please feel free to chat here about it...I would enjoy revisiting so much of Paul's wisdom he shared.

quote:

Originally posted by read'n4fun:
Are you guys planning to discuss the book in August. I am planning on reading this one in August. I'll have "A Prayer for Owen Meany" finished by then.

I had started to read "The Shack" and then put it aside, when we were reading it together before. I found that school/work was too intense and that I lacked the focus I felt I needed to get into the book. Hopefully, now's a good time for me to get into it!

I'm not good at reading 2 books at once!

quote:

I am hoping one of our members that saved our discussion from Oprah Boards will post it.

Barb emailed me a LOT of the conversation from the other boards. I will try to see if I can copy and paste the discussions.

Morning

I won't be reading The Shack at this time but I know I would love to reread it.

9th week as numero uno on the NY best selling list. http://www.nytimes.com/pages/books/bestseller/index.html

I remember after we had finished discussing the book with Paul I had emailed him and mentioned that I wouldn't be a part of his forum that he has. Told him that those people in there must of studied the bible since they were embreo's. Just took a quick look and there seems to be lots of discussing going on. Nothing like us, but we would be tough to beat.

Here's the link....click on "interactive" and then "The Shack forum"

http://www.theshackbook.com/index.html

We have no idea where Paul is at right now in the world. 2 weeks ago Debbie dropped off some Avon at work and said he has sold over 2 million copies now.

I should email him. One thing I do know for sure is he loves you all and what we did. I think we kinda blew him away in our discussing. I can honestly say that that was one of my high points in my life.

Barb

Here is the beginning:
Good morning everyone

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 7:42am (7411 of 8552)



Today is the day, so let's start dishing about the shack. What do you all
think of the book so far?



Cindy







Question for Paul

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 7:52am (7412 of 8552)



I'm dying to know if you based the character of Mack on anyone you know?



Cindy







Character Assimilation

In Response to: question for Paul

Posted by: brawdon

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 7:56am (7413 of 8552)



Cindy,



That is my first question too. Just knowing a bit of Barb's background and
the author's forward makes me wonder....inquiring minds want to know.



Barb NY







The shack

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 7:57am (7414 of 8552)



This book opened a whole range of emotions in me. Did it do the same for
you? Having never had children I can only imagine what the pain of losing a
child would be. Those of you who have children, how did missy's
disappearance affect you, and what was going through your mind when you read
this part?



Cindy







Good morning zippy

In Response to: Character Assimilation

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:00am (7415 of 8552)



That was the question that kept coming up in my mind throughout the whole
book. I have always been told that most authors write what they know. We
will see soon I hope.



Cindy





Setting the Stage

In Response to: good morning zippy

Posted by: brawdon

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:08am (7416 of 8552)



First a bit about Paul's writing. I like the flow of his writing and the way
he sets the stage of events. He makes you keep questioning from where he
might be drawing the storyline. How much is true? How much is added to flush
out the story?



He had me wondering if Missy's disappearance was due to her attraction to
the Legend of the Great Spirit--her obsession with the cliffs on their
hike--I was wondering if she played out the part of the princess dying for
the family's well being--taking the Legend to reality.



Barb NY







I must admit

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:12am (7417 of 8552)



That crossed my mind as well.



Cindy







The shack

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:16am (7418 of 8552)



Paul's writing I think is very unique. As the story progresses his
imagination is just awesome. The book kept me hooked from the get go. Is
there a part of the book you have read so far that made you know you couldn
t put it down?



Cindy







The Shack

In Response to: good morning everyone

Posted by: damifino04

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:31am (7419 of 8552)



Today is the day, so let's start dishing about the shack. What do you all
think of the book so far?



Cindy



I'm got pulled into the story right away. Fantasic Cindy . But the thing
that had me going was when Mack collided with that tree. And the way Paul
discribes the smugness of that old tree had me hook line and sinker.



Barb







Inquiring Minds

In Response to: question for Paul

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:32am (7420 of 8552)



Seems like that was a big question for all of us? Okay Paul....



Lori







Hi Guys!

Posted by: mbeth39

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:35am (7421 of 8552)



Tea sent me her copy of "The Shack." I got it Friday! She also sent me a
card that had a picture of a hula girl and boy! She said they were David and
Gladys! LOL! It was just what I needed! I may try to read along! Well have
to see how far I get with TCOMC!



Mary







The Shack

In Response to: good morning everyone

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:36am (7422 of 8552)



Lovin' it so far! I love the flow of the writing and Paul really draws you
in smoothly and easily.



Lori







Good morning and I am back!

Posted by: kitluvslit

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:42am (7423 of 8552)



HI everyone! I actually got back on Friday night but my husband who knew he
was off limits on the computer while I was gone went on anyway and had it
jammed up with junk plus the power went out sometime after he was on and it
was disconnected in the system even though it was all still connnected.
Whew!!!



So I attempted to rest up yesterday, fix the computer as much as I could to
get on today.



I have read the first 4 chapters and ready to go. Kit







The Shack discussion

In Response to: the shack

Posted by: damifino04

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:44am (7424 of 8552)



this book opened a whole range of emotions in me. did it do the same for
you? having never had children i can only imagine what the pain of losing a
child would be. those of you who have children, how did missy's
disappearance affect you, and what was going through your mind when you read
this part?



cindy



Cindy even tho you addressed this question to the parents of this group I
feel I need to reply as well.



I was rather disappointed in myself after reading The Great Sadness. I "did
not" cry. I thought to myself, what is wrong with me? Is it because I don't
have kids and can't relate? Is it because I am cold hearted? Perhaps I was
expecting a great sadness and prepared myself. But I was worried that I was
not normal. How could you not cry during that chapter? It really bothers me
that I did not cry.







The Shack 1-4

Posted by: kitluvslit

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:44am (7425 of 8552)



I want to know if this is fiction or non and if it is fiction if it was/is
based on real events or not?? Kit





Descriptive Writing

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:45am (7426 of 8552)



I'm really enjoying the way Paul's writing seems to draw you right into your
own experiences.



I put a little post it note in the chapter Confluence of Paths, when he
describes the snow day..."even if it's hardly more than a day or two, each
person feels like the master of his or her own world..." I loved that! It
just brought me back to when the kids were really little and we would stand
at the front window watching the snow fall...praying for a God given day off
from everything...good times, snowball fights and hot cocoa.



Lori



















(((Kit)))

In Response to: The Shack 1-4

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:46am (7427 of 8552)



Missed you woman! How was you trip and I'm so glad you're back to join us
with this!



Lori



















barb

In Response to: The Shack discussion

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:47am (7428 of 8552)



Don't think there is anything wrong with you because you did not cry. I was
so enthralled with the whole story that although my emotions were extreme I
did not cry through the whole book. I was and still am extremely moved by
the whole thing.



Cindy



















Barb-The Great Sadness

In Response to: The Shack discussion

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:49am (7429 of 8552)



I don't think it should bother you that you didn't cry...each one of us is
coming at this story from a different vantage point and each one , I'm sure
has a great sadness that they can relate to.



I loved the title and as soon as I read it could relate it to my own
experience, but each person's experience is different. Besides, not everyone
is a walking tear duct...lol



Lori



















THe Shack - 1-4

In Response to: The Shack discussion

Posted by: kitluvslit

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:49am (7430 of 8552)



Cindy asked: <this book opened a whole range of emotions in me. Did it do
the same for you? Having never had children I can only imagine what the pain
of losing a child would be. Those of you who have children, how did missy's
disappearance affect you, and what was going through your mind when you read
this part?



Barb responded:



Barb, I don't have any children either and feel I need to respond too. I did
not cry nor feel any great sadness at this. I guess my feeling is that I don
t know enough of the story/real life event and feel that there is going to
be an upside to this ...there is going to be a message of hope if we have
faith to let it happen ...or something like that! Does that makes sense?



My initial feeling is that this is a cross between the Lovely Bones and The
Elizabeth Smart story. However, I can feel for Mack in this situation. I do
see how his world is crashing around him but I can't help but think there is
going to be a message of hope here.



Kit



















Discussing The Shack

In Response to: the shack

Posted by: damifino04

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:50am (7431 of 8552)





Is there a part of the book you have read so far that made you know you
couldn't put it down?





Cindy



Well yea...the name of the author on the front cover...lol.



The names of the chapters. I get this preconcieved idea about what I think a
chapter is going to be about. So I know I just gotta read it, haven't been
right yet.



Barb



















Getting back in the swing

Posted by: kitluvslit

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:52am (7432 of 8552)



I am going out for a bit. I have so much to catch up outside and inside and
my hubby wants to go walk. Iwill be back for more of the Shack!!!



So good to be here again! Sigh



Kit



















Hooked

In Response to: the shack

Posted by: brawdon

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:53am (7433 of 8552)



I am forcing myself to put the book down so I don't get too far ahead and
can discuss on schedule.



The reference to The Great Sadness made me want to keep reading to find out
what it actually meant. It is effective the way Paul uses "The Great Sadness
reference to portray his feelings in a nutshell.



I found it interesting the way Paul portrayed Mack's struggle with his faith
in God--how can God let such things happen and why? I think we all struggle
with this one.



Also, I had to keep reading to find out what Mack does about the note left
from Papa--does he use common sense and ignore it or does he pursue his
curiosities? Good intrigue.



Barb NY



















My favorite parts

In Response to: Discussing The Shack

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:53am (7434 of 8552)



are the quotes at the beginning of each chapter...they really set the stage
for that scene.



Lori



















Papa

In Response to: Hooked

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:55am (7435 of 8552)



I'm wondering what you all thought when Mack took that note out of the
mailbox and it was signed Papa. I sure didn't expect it to lead to where we
are so far. I just assumed that Mack would find his daughter's murderer at
the shack and have to grapple with his emotions at that point.



Lori



PS Barb, seems alot of us are trying to stay on schedule but I could really
devour this in a few hours if given half a chance...lol



Not Crying

In Response to: THe Shack - 1-4

Posted by: brawdon

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 8:59am (7437 of 8552)



I did not cry and I have children. Maybe it is because I was in a state of
denial--thinking--it is not as bad as it appears--she is really not
dead--did they recover the body? I have to look back. See, if they did I
blocked it out--I have a tendency to do that with books---change the
happenings to suit my needs---



Barb NY







Recovering the Body

In Response to: Not Crying

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 9:02am (7438 of 8552)



If you forgot that so did I Barb...lol..maybe I do the same thing. I
seriously cannot remember if they found her body or not.



Mike always says he has a way of blocking out the bad stuff and I can tell
you from living with him, he's very good at it. Wish a had a bit more of
that....I have to analyze things in order to be able to work through them,
he just naturally pushes them out of his mind and moves on.



Lori







Lori said...

In Response to: Barb-The Great Sadness

Posted by: damifino04

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 9:02am (7439 of 8552)



Besides, not everyone is a walking tear duct...lol



Your funny Lori. Its okay, I have made up for that chapter in everyone I
have read since then.



Barb...turns out I'm normal after all.







Grappling with god

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 9:14am (7440 of 8552)



The theme of this book seems to be Mack's struggle with his belief in god.
Throughout the book I found myself wondering how many times a day I blame
god for the bad stuff. After reading this book I find myself giving god more
credit for the good stuff and blaming myself more for the bad. I wonder how
many times a day we all blame god, and how we resolve those feelings.



Cindy







Blaming God

In Response to: grappling with god

Posted by: brawdon

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 9:20am (7441 of 8552)



I find I try not to use the word blame against God or myself. I often
question God about things. I ask a lot for his protection and guidance for
me, my family and friends in time of need and I thank Him in times of
wonderment. When things turn out poorly I question Him why, and then proceed
to deal with it as-- there is a reason, purpose for the outcome--good or bad
We just may not know it immediately--the purpose of life.



Barb NY







Cindy and Papa

In Response to: grappling with god

Posted by: damifino04

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 9:21am (7442 of 8552)



Hi Cindy. My feelings on Mack's struggle was not in his belief but in his
trust for Papa.



Barb







Grappling with God

In Response to: grappling with god

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 9:24am (7443 of 8552)



I think all of us struggle with that, Cindy. It's so easy to fall back on
that when going through really trying times. For me, it relates back to The
Great Sadness...that whole concept really resonated with me...and, for those
that know me well, you might remember my story about when Dee was fist
diagnosed with autism. I had every one of those feelings ( not that I'm
proud of them ). I found myself blaming God for a few months right before
and after that....very difficult to work through those feelings.



Lori







Foreward Shack

Posted by: damifino04

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 9:26am (7444 of 8552)



One of my favorite things in The Shack is in the Foreward, towards the end.



"You know that place: where there is just you alone and maybe God, if you
believe in Him. Of course God might be there even if you don't believe in
Him. That would be just like Him. He hasn't been call the Grand Interferer
for nothing."



How many times has God popped into your life when you were least expecting
it? Nice surprise to. Remind me to tell you a story about collecting stones
one day. Long story and I don't want to get into it just yet.



Barb







Foreward

In Response to: Foreward Shack

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 9:40am (7445 of 8552)



You know that place: where there is just you alone and maybe God, if you
believe in Him. Of course God might be there even if you don't believe in
Him.



I loved that quote, Barb and, again, could pinpoint my "moment". I was
wondering if anyone else has had a particular moment like that and would be
willing to share.



Lori



The Struggle

In Response to: Grappling with God

Posted by: brawdon

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 9:52am (7446 of 8552)



I had the struggle with questioning God when my son Ryan was diagnosed with
Hodgkin's Disease when he was nine. I was in denial, angry and blamed myself
for not following my instincts to have the lump checked out by multiple
doctors for multiple diagnosis and action each time his doctor said it was a
normal fatty lump, to watch it for change.



I drew strength from that anger and turned it into support for Ryan and to
get us through the healing process. Now I thank God for making the
treatments work, the recovery, and for his remission to date.



He was a hero thru the process and has become a very caring, understanding
individual because of it. He pulled me thru and will not let me feel guilty
no matter how ill he felt at the time or how uncomfortable the treatments
were--he would not let us truly know. We have a special unspoken closeness
because of the experience.



He never missed a day of school besides going for his treatments and tried
to continue his daily routines as much as possible. I got permission to give
a little talk to his elementary school class so they would not be afraid of
the changes Ryan would take on while under treatment--the hair loss, wearing
a hat all the time, the weight gain from Pregnsone. The schoolmates and
teacher/staff support in fifth and sixth grade was terrific.



We lived as much a normal life as possible during the year of treatment and
recovery--proceeding with our sports activities together and vacations. It
was an important part of the healing process.



This experience has made me appreciate every day with my family and friends
and all this life has offered me so far--the good with the bad. Ryan will be
21 in August and is still in remission.



Thanks for letting me share my story---I hope it brings strength to anyone
suffering at this time.



Barb NY







God was there

In Response to: Foreward

Posted by: damifino04

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 9:56am (7447 of 8552)



Well seeing as you asked Lori...



I loved that quote, Barb and, again, could pinpoint my "moment". I was
wondering if anyone else has had a particular moment like that and would be
willing to share.



A long lost girlfriend contacted me about 3 yrs ago out of the blue. Hadn't
seen her for about 15 years. She came into town and we started playing catch
up. Wanted to know what I was interested in etc. She told me she was into
rocks and stones and heard there was a place in Vernon that sold crystals
and that sort of thing. Okay I thought. So I took her to this place that
sold all sorts of weird stuff. I call it the Voo Doo store. Gave me the
heeby jeebies walking in there. Remember when we talked about Ouiji (sp)
boards? That kinda stuff. Well I voiced my concern to my friend and the
teller about how does Jesus fit into all this? My friends cell phone rang
and she went outside to answer it. I was watching her and she bent down and
picked something by the wheel of my truck. When she came back in she gave it
to me and said I think this belongs to you. It was a tiny little metal
crucifix. I had never seen it before. I told her well you found it it
belongs to you. She said nope, your the one that keeps bringing up Jesus. So
I kept it. Neat ey?



Barb



Crucifix

In Response to: God was there

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 10:05am (7449 of 8552)



Wonder how that got there Barb? Seems like Papa was trying to send a visible
message. I would hang on to that crucifix.



Lori



Who said tears are needed

In Response to: The Shack discussion

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 10:15am (7451 of 8552)



To equate one "Great Sadness".



I have not cried either, and I have lost a daughter, yet I feel great
empathy for Mack.



Tearless too, m







Struggling with the concept of God

In Response to: Hooked

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 10:30am (7454 of 8552)



Who is the embodiment of Love, letting bad things happen to us.



Personally I have never bought into this concept. To me life happens, period
Life is dealing with all that happens.



And as crazy as this may sound, knowing that the difficult times are
blessings, because with out difficult times we would not have the
opportunity to learn some of our best life lessons.



Having the belief systems that gives one comfort in the love of omnipresent
spirit is the blessings of faith.



I too am enjoying this book, I just know Mack's invitation to the shack is
gonna be a great experience.



M



PS... I am chopping at the bit to read on, and I also find Paul's writing
style comfortable and engaging.







Mack's invitation,

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 10:38am (7455 of 8552)



Mack was summons to the physical core of his pain.



The shack is the physical manifestation of where he believe the presence of
evil, pain, hurt and lose are embodied.



What will Mack do, how will Paul teach us and Mack life lesson.... Hmmm



M



Oops... Not leaving yet...

In Response to: Cindy and Papa

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 10:54am (7457 of 8552)



I enjoy that Paul choose to have Mack find a note in his mailbox, that is
signed by Nan's name for God.



I enjoy Nan calling God, Papa. Papa is a family member, we all have Papa's,
it makes God seem and sound so much more accessible.



I like referring to God as, Father/Mother/God, this thought process has
always given me strength. Feeling that my personal spiritual leader was my
true Father and Mother.



M







God was there

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 10:56am (7458 of 8552)



Have two very real times in my life when I have no doubt that god was there.
The first was right after my second divorce. I did not have a job and no
place to live. I was scared to death. Then I met Charlie. For four years now
I have never had to worry about money or a place to live. I know with all my
heart that Charlie was sent to me by god.



Cindy







Lori, you did work though

In Response to: Grappling with God

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:05am (7459 of 8552)



Your struggles of why you felt God had also presented you, Dee and your
family with a Great Saddnes too.



Please be proud of all your feelings, we are human. I don't like to think
God my true father and mother judges me, I prefer to sit back feel the
omnipresent support and let myself without judgment of myself work through
my feelings.



M







Barb NY

In Response to: The Struggle

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:12am (7460 of 8552)



Thanks for sharing your story of Ryan's diagnosis and your actions and
thoughts during and after.



I recall you previously sharing this, and I find it generous of each of us
who take the time to share any of our life experiences with each other. How
else are we all to benefit, and learn with out each other's stories.



Ahhh stories, here in Hawaii the locals refer to the process of sharing as
Talking story".... Cute hey...



M







Cindy

In Response to: god was there

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:22am (7461 of 8552)



I think you are right, Charlie is a wonderful blessing... And you and he
choose each other. An attraction created through mutual affection and love.



The best life has to offer is created through these qualities.



This time in your life must have been so frightening, no matter how strong I
think I am, I do know I too would have felt fear just like you did. But in
the moments when we allowe our fear to be filled with strength that is when
we are embraced.



I guess letting go and trusting is one of the keys.... Hmm



M







Let go and Let God

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:27am (7462 of 8552)



Wow, all of us have experienced reasons to do just this.



Losing our daughter during birth was a Supreme example of utilizing this
concept for me.



M







Believing

In Response to: Foreward

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:31am (7463 of 8552)



Believing sure is comforting!



No matter what ya call your belief, or even is you don't have a word for
your belief...........



M







I've been catching up....Paul

Posted by: wpyoung - "...sometimes the Wind comes at you sideways..."

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:37am (7464 of 8552)



Hi everyone...I am sooooo impressed by you all. You are so full of life and
encouragement and caring about each other, I almost feel like I am
interrupting something quite wonderful. I am also deeply touched by your
sensitivity for each other and by the openness and honesty in your
communication with one another.



This is very unique experience for me (this is the first book I have written
- and I never even thought about publishing it even when I wrote it), but
beyond the wonder of all that...not only is Barb, my sister-in-law, on here
(and frankly I have grown to love and know her really for the first time
over the course of the events surrounding this book. Also, my sister, Debbie
is here and maybe even my mom will drop by.



btw...I don't know if it was one of you, but we were notified that the Oprah
machinery had received a submission for The Shack to be considered overall..
so if one of you is to blame..thank you!



I am going to begin working on your questions: The first and one that I am
asked all the time is about the 'fictional' nature of the book.



First, the story is 'fiction' but it is still the composite of very 'real'
situations and issues. I may have mentioned this somewhere before, but I
originally (in the first draft) had Mackenzie Allen Phillips as the writer
on the cover, 'with' William Paul Young, as the ghostwriter. But after two
guys, one in California and one in Canada almost bought airline tickets to
come and visit Mack, we decided it was too much (kinda funny though), but I
kept the idea of 'Willie' ghost writing.



It stills 'plays' with peoples minds a bit, and I rather like that...keeps
things up in the air and uncertain...and I like that a lot, a lot like life.



I am as close to the Mack character as you will find. In fact, I am a sort
of mix of both Mack and Willie. Missy really represents 'loss', deep
profound loss, even the losses like Barb in NY has had to deal with around
Ryan. Most of us in the human family have losses.



We had a six month period right after my first son, Chad, was born when my
youngest brother, who was not yet 20, was killed in a terrible accident, my
mother-in-law, at 59, suddenly died of a massive coronary, and my sister
Debbie's daughter was killed the day after her 5th birthday. It was a
wrenching season. Beyond that Missy represent, for me personally, the 'loss'
of my own childhood. I grew up in an environment that was more dangerous
than the adults around me were aware, and







My childhood

In Response to: Foreward

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:40am (7465 of 8552)



Believing gave me strength, I ate up the concept of a Father/Mother/God who
was there for everyone, all knowing, all powerful, and all loving.



Can't pin point a moment, just a belief.



M







Paul...continued

In Response to: I've been catching up....Paul

Posted by: wpyoung - "...sometimes the Wind comes at you sideways..."

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:46am (7466 of 8552)



And...starting when I was about 4 years old was regularly sexually abused.
By the time I was 6, as much as I think it is possible for a child of 6, I
was already a predator. When, at 6, I was flown out to boarding school, I
walked right into it again...was awoken the first night by a group of the
oldest boys, and... It took me more than 40 years to deal with all that crap




So Missy is an 'icon' of the purity and innocence of being human, and the
tragedy of what we experience in this chaotic world, things that ought not
to happen, but do.



The anger that Mack shows, is my anger, except for one major difference...my
sense of the presence of God in my life was how I survived, so my anger was
never directed at God, but rather at everyone else and, of course,
especially at myself. But the anger is very real, for Mack...for me too. I
have been at a place where I thought there was no 'hope' left, it is the
ultimate dark place.



So, is it fiction? Yes...and no...and as you read the book, I think you will
understand better what I mean.



To be continued...



















paul

In Response to: I've been catching up....Paul

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:48am (7467 of 8552)



It is so wonderful to see you on the boards. I honestly believe you have
leeann to thank for submitting your book as a read for oprah and the rest of
us for following her lead. We have you to thank for a wonderful, insightful,
life altering, thinking book. You are awesome and I hope you write more and
more books. Your writing style is awesome. I just knew from the tender way
you wrote your characters that you were drawing somewhat on real life. God
bless you and welcome.



Cindy



















paul

In Response to: Paul...continued

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:56am (7468 of 8552)



Can imagine that writing this book was very theraputic for you. Did it help
you to deal with those horrible things you faced? I hope so. Having read the
book ahead of everyone, I feel a special connection, and I am so honored
that you agreed to tell your story to us. We depend on each other a lot. I
must say that I have never thought about a book and its concepts as much as
I have with this one. Well done my new found friend. Well done.



Cindy



















Paul, Part 3

Posted by: wpyoung - "...sometimes the Wind comes at you sideways..."

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:57am (7469 of 8552)



The Shack itself is that place that we want to avoid, the place where
someday we 'must' go, for healing to be accomplished in our hearts. So it is
such a mixed place, horrible and full of potential.



The hardest part of this format (working on the first four chapters only,
for example) is that I want to refer to things you have not read or
experienced yet. The first four chapters is really the introduction to the
book, and you have really no idea what is in store for you, just as Mack did
not imagine either.



One of my sons is playing basketball, and his coach, who had just read the
book, came up to me and gave me a huge hug (he is a real manly kid of guy),
tears came to his eyes and he said, "You know, I have a great sadness in my
life?" I responded, "Most of us do." He smiled, "Less than two years ago I
held my 15 month baby girl in my arms while she died." He knows that I
understand about loss, about things are 'just' wrong. He and I will 'always'
be friends.



'Loss' removes the imagination of our independence and control, driving us
toward vulnerability and finally humanness.



Let's embrace the chaos and uncertainty...that is where faith if born and
within which faith grows.



Caring about you all... 'Paul'



















My life is all about 'grace

In Response to: Paul

Posted by: wpyoung - "...sometimes the Wind comes at you sideways..."

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 11:59am (7470 of 8552)



...it was extremely healing, writing the book. I bawled my way through major
sections of it, and there are certain places I still can't read without
being lost in a puddle. Like Mack, people's anger and hurtfulness never did
anything to me...I knew how to disappear into a hard shell of self
protection, but it was the kind word, the touch, the consideration that left
me helpless and exposed.



Cheers to gentle kindness..



'paul'



















Morning Paul,

In Response to: Paul...continued

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 12:23pm (7471 of 8552)



Honestly the fears in your life and sharing those fears turned into your
blessing.



Right???



I applaud you for sharing your personal stories of sexual abuse. To be
abused as a child to me is one of the most difficult experiences any human
can experience... on so many levels.



Paul, you are aware that the presence of your beliefs in God was how you
survived, and now you have done a great service to other humans by sharing
the accessibility of this belief.



Mack's struggles provide readers with the ability to sympathize, and
empathize, which gives us readers a feeling of oneness with the character
you created. As a reader I was pulled into Mack's thinking, I was able to
relate to his emotions of lose, anger, and mistrust.



Although my experience of mistrust was never directed at God, just other
humans.



It is sad that you experienced anger at yourself, and it is very wise how
you choose to express this with Mack's anger at himself for not protecting
Missy.



I applaud you story writers!!!! To me it is a gift to be able to create a
tale like this, that shares your emotions, and lessons in a fictional
setting... what a gift you have Paul...







m



















Great words

In Response to: Paul, Part 3

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 12:28pm (7472 of 8552)



Paul wrote:





"'Loss' removes the imagination of our independence and control, driving us
toward vulnerability and finally humanness. Let's embrace the chaos and
uncertainty...that is where faith if born and within which faith grows. "





ohhh these words feel so good, and right.



ummmmm,



m



















Thank you 'M'

In Response to: Morning Paul,

Posted by: wpyoung - "...sometimes the Wind comes at you sideways..."

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 12:40pm (7473 of 8552)



As much as you might wish..you cannot go 'around' 'The Shack', you must go
through it, to find the life that is on the other side. Sometimes that
process of going 'through' it, takes a life time.



For everyone: there are some comments and questions that I purposely want to
hold off responding to, because they will actually make more sense as we
move through the book...so if you ask something and I don't get right back
to you (I will try and let you know when I am 'holding back' a bit)...please
know that it is not 'you'.



Also, (another caveat)...while I think this book is something rather
special' and am overwhelmed already by the response and the impact it has
already had, my sense of worth and identity are not wrapped up in it...so if
you happen to dislike it...please feel free to speak your mind, just as if
the author' were not attending. I promise, you won't hurt my feelings.



'paul'



















Paul I have a question

In Response to: Paul...continued

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 12:49pm (7474 of 8552)



and it is your choice, friend, to answer or not.



You wrote:





"starting when I was about 4 years old was regularly sexually abused. By the
time I was 6, as much as i think it is possible for a child of 6, I was
already a predator. When, at 6, I was flown out to boarding school, I walked
right into it again...was awoken the first night by a group of the oldest
boys, and... it took me more than 40 years to deal with all that crap."





I am not understanding the concept of you being a predator, as in: "I was
already a predator". Please clarify.



m



















Trusting

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 12:55pm (7475 of 8552)



If you would be so kind as to voice your opions, reactions, philosophies on
this concept of trusting...



Trusting other humans, not God.



I would so appreciate it.



Thank you,



m



Predator

In Response to: Paul I have a question

Posted by: wpyoung - "...sometimes the Wind comes at you sideways..."

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 12:58pm (7476 of 8552)



Good question...tough question. What it means is that by the age of 6 I was
already on the prowl, trying to coerce little girls into sexual situations,
setting traps, spying on others etc. Sexual abuse fragments the human
personality like few things do, and for a child it moves them into complex
and complicated feelings and emotions prematurely, as well as requiring the
creation of internal and external survival systems. Part of the problem for
me was the people and culture who introduced me into these experiences, were
also the same ones as who loved me the most consistently (I became one of
them'). Even into my late 30's if asked to draw a circle around who I
considered my 'family', it would not have been my biological family, but
this group of people.



Hope that helps answer your question. 'Paul







Trusting 'people'...hmmmm

In Response to: Trusting

Posted by: wpyoung - "...sometimes the Wind comes at you sideways..."

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 1:08pm (7477 of 8552)



Now, I actually have a lot to say about this one...but it is going to have
to wait (you will find it in the book, but not for awhile).



Jot it down so we don't forget...



Thanks 'Paul







Thank you, Paul

In Response to: Predator

Posted by: kiheimaui

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 1:11pm (7478 of 8552)



For your response to my questions of why predator?



Care to help me to understand what differentiates sexual abuse from other
abuses imposed on a child?



M







The Shack - sharing

Posted by: kitluvslit

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 1:35pm (7479 of 8552)



I don't know exactly why but the sharing of life experieces brought about by
the title "The great Sadness" is very difficult for me.



My most recent great sadness I have already shared here a bit on the boards
and am still dealing with. Once I start talking about my physical condition,
I have the attitude that I can accept this as the chaos that is at this
moment and move on. If I share more and start to wonder why this has
happened to me I DO start questioning God and why? Then I cry and then I am
angry. I don't want to go there. I want to move on.



I can see a long road that Mack is going to have to go through yet to get to
that point and I hope that his message will help me. I can see that it was
so cathartic (sp?) for you Paul and I am so impressed by all the sharing of
your own personal struggle and the others here in this group. Face it "We
Rock"!!!!!



Kit







Paul - Like it or not!

Posted by: kitluvslit

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 1:42pm (7480 of 8552)



I was going to bring up something that in a way sort of bothers me before
you mentioned that we should feel free to voice our dislikes..haha!



I have to say I am really liking the story. However, (big pause) I can't
get past the use of the word Papa for God. It is very distracting to me and
not that I am huge religious fanatic or anything but while it is used in
your book to portray a familial or close relation to God it is to me a bit
of disrespect that God could ever be so human. Does that make sense?



When Mack first got the mailbox note I wanted the Papa to be someone human
who was going to help Mack and his family in some way. I realize that it
would be hard to have a note signed "God" also so I am not sure what I would
have done in the writing.



I am not a controversial person so I don't know why I even posted this other
than I feel I can in the safeness that is this group. Kit







If I may be so bold

In Response to: Paul - Like it or not!

Posted by: pookey2004 - frantic the frog

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 1:49pm (7481 of 8552)



kit; i believe that you will feel differently about the use of the word papa
as you read further in the book. i actually thought from the beginning that
it was a term of endearment. he is in essence our papa. i want to say so
much more but we aren't that far into the book yet. Patience my dear friend.



cindy







The Shack - 1-4 putting down the book

In Response to: Discussing The Shack

Posted by: kitluvslit

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 1:50pm (7482 of 8552)



Yes, I could put down the book at any moment but not because it is a
horrible book, but because I sense a fear that I might find out something
about myself that I am not ready to handle just yet. Anyone understand that
twisted thinking?



However, I think that also is the point of why I can't put it down because I
need to find out if that is true for me or just my imagination. The more you
all share and especially Paul's personal story I really do have a niggling
sense of fear building for some reason. kit







Abuse is Abuse...

In Response to: Thank you, Paul

Posted by: wpyoung - "...sometimes the Wind comes at you sideways..."

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 1:54pm (7483 of 8552)



There are a myriad of ways to abuse people (and children). Most often it
involves issues of 'power' - one of the reasons why males tend to be (by
far) the more abusive of the genders. And how abuse impacts a person is
unique to their makeup, which is why you cannot compare 'your' abuse - even
if it is the same category of abuse - with someone else's experience.



The 'weaker' and more 'fragile' a person is, the greater the impact and
destructiveness of abuse, the more pronounced the 'fragmentation of the
personality'. All abuse fragments the person, creating pieces of the self
that , I believe, only God can ultimately put back together again (I know
this for sure...all the kings horses and all the kings men cannot).



Sexual abuse seems to create the greatest potential for fragmentation, I
think in part because it is 'so' personal, so intimate, so inner. No one had
to tell me as a little boy that there was something wrong, as good as it
might have felt (which is part of the massive confusion). I knew it was to
be hidden and secret...my parents had no idea, and I knew it was not safe to
tell them.



Partly there is a profound mystery of the human personality here, one that I
don't pretend to comprehend very well. There are people out there that
understand it much better than I do.



I will say this...for those who are the 'victims' - it is important not to
negate or diminish your own history (especially in comparison to 'someone
else'), and it is something you cannot go 'around', but you must go 'through
, and I don't think any of us can do it on our own (we have been damaged and
broken in relationships...it is in relationships that we will be healed).



Again...hope that makes some sense to you... 'paul'







Like Cindy says....

In Response to: if i may be so bold

Posted by: wpyoung - "...sometimes the Wind comes at you sideways..."

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 2:00pm (7484 of 8552)



Kit...hang in there. You may feel exactly the same down the road, but there
really is greater context to all this.



One thing I can tell you to ease your mind a little: There is no disrespect
at all by intention or design...I think you will be surprised...we will see.



Part of the fun...and glad you were free enough to bring it up...good for
you! 'paul'







Just catching up

Posted by: clayrox27

Posted on: 06/03/2007 at 2:02pm

I finished the book tonight and now I will go and read the discussions you all had last year.

I'm very glad that I read it and I thought that he did a very good job writing the story. I had to keep telling myself throughout the book that this was fiction. It was a really easy story to believe that it was real.

quote:

Originally posted by Damifino:
Morning

I won't be reading The Shack at this time but I know I would love to reread it.

9th week as numero uno on the NY best selling list. http://www.nytimes.com/pages/books/bestseller/index.html

I remember after we had finished discussing the book with Paul I had emailed him and mentioned that I wouldn't be a part of his forum that he has. Told him that those people in there must of studied the bible since they were embreo's. Just took a quick look and there seems to be lots of discussing going on. Nothing like us, but we would be tough to beat.

Here's the link....click on "interactive" and then "The Shack forum"

http://www.theshackbook.com/index.html

We have no idea where Paul is at right now in the world. 2 weeks ago Debbie dropped off some Avon at work and said he has sold over 2 million copies now.

I should email him. One thing I do know for sure is he loves you all and what we did. I think we kinda blew him away in our discussing. I can honestly say that that was one of my high points in my life.

Barb

Hi, Barb! I just picked up a copy of "The Shack" today. A good friend of mine was reading it recently, and she really liked it. I don't know if she's finished or not. Anyway, I remember seeing parts of your discussion on the O boards, and kinda remember that W.P. Young was somehow related to someone...I couldn't quite remember who, or how! Reading your post, it looks like you're the lucky relative! I assume Paul is his middle name (??) Anyway, I'm hoping to read it soon, and if you're discussing it again here I'd love to join in.

Sharon