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John Madison's avatar

Thank you, Richard. If I'm allowed to inject a little humor into such an important subject, I have often felt that if I really want to jinx a day all I have to do is start messing around with positive thinking. On the serious side, I can't always conjure up self esteem...but I know how to say "thank you"...which is one of the reasons I still believe in God...I need someone to hear it.

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Renita Hamm's avatar

Just finished The Shape of Joy. This book challenged, validated and encouraged me in so many ways. I wish I could buy a box full and distribute, but that's usually not the best way to get others to read it.

I've been chatting about it though, to many people. The cigarette of self-esteem, the hexagon of the ego, the beauty of humility, coming out of the cave to bask in the sun, the beauty of transcendence. I'll re-read it. I'll re-read Magic Eels.

Your writing is clear and persuasive. I love how you challenge cultural narratives of self-esteem, yes, and, naming the value of guilt and shame, and how we get to repair.

I love your stories too, of Mr. Kenneth, and of the green Buick, and of your friend, Miss Beth of the Dollar Tree Princess Tiara. Love calls us out into the sunshine.

Thank-you for writing.

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