The Surprising Gift of the Enneagram
“To be a saint means to be my True Self. Therefore, the problem of sanctity and salvation is in fact the problem of finding out who I truly am and of discovering my true self, my essence or core.” (Thomas Merton and the True Self.)
The Enneagram is a wonderful tool to complement seeking greater spiritual awareness. There are a few different ways to explore your Enneagram type.
- The Narrative Enneagram. an interactive exploration of the Enneagram through inquiry with panelists who share their personal stories and insights. Their teaching methods support learning from the mind, heart and body.
- Online Assessment Tool. Discover your type through a series of questions that are scored for you.
- Harmony Triads. As a classic Two on the Enneagram, I personally love the Harmony Triads, as it allows me to focus on the gifts within both the Five and the Eight. Learn more through: Spiritual Rhythms for the Enneagram: A Handbook for Harmony and Transformation. By Doug & Adele Cahhoun and Clare & Scott Loughrige.
- Enneagram Books. Find several excellent resources to guide you as you explore your Type. Such as:
Wise words as you consider the Enneagram
We don’t see things as they are, but we see things as we are.
The Enneagram tool releases old patterns of reaction.
No tool is perfect, but some are helpful.
If you don’t transform your wounds, you will transmit them.
Questions to ponder as you explore your Enneagram Type
Which of the nine types sounds most like you? How?
Which sin or vice turns you off most?
What about that type makes you feel uncomfortable or embarrassed?
What about that type delights you?
What default behavior do you employ when you are feeling anxious or stressed?
How does the idea of reacting to life from your Head, Heart or Gut resonate with you?
What do you wish people understood about your number?
What do you most appreciate or envy about the other numbers?
What drives you crazy about the other numbers?
Are you most likely to experience shame, fear or anger? What has it taught you?
How do you use this information? Where do you go next with this?
What are the dangers with this knowledge?
How do you use this in my interactions with others?
Our emotions: Claim it-Name it-Tame it.
“The spiritual life does not remove us from the world but leads us deeper into it.” Henri Nouwen.
More Enneagram Resources
https://cac.org/the-enneagram-an-introduction/
https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/how-the-enneagram-system-works/
https://www.enneagramspectrum.com/enneagram-styles/
Want to explore this further? Please reach out to me at laura.lies@streamsgrace.com