All around us there are designs and patterns that are pleasing to look at. I enjoy the vast array of flowers that bloom indoors and outdoors. Lately I have been reading about a different kind of design/pattern.
In the book, The Road Back to You, Ian Morgan Cron describes the enneagram as a map of the human personality. The enneagram describes nine different personality types. Each type sees the world in a slightly different way. The nine types are motivated in unique ways.
My primary goal in reading a book about the enneagram was to get a tool to help with character development as I worked on my novel, but . . .
As I read each chapter, I was able to see myself and my husband with new understanding. There is value in spending time to see another way of interacting, another way of learning and communicating.
Concurrently I am reading, Total Forgiveness by R.T. Kendall, participating in a group study. Chapter 4 in the book is titled, “Playing God”. Our group had a lively discussion about judging others. We compared and contrasted judgement and criticism.
As I thought about the two books, I realized the importance of spending time communicating with people that are different. What is motivating the behavior that I don’t understand? I might be too quick to judge.
Have you read a book about the enneagram? What did you think?
This post is shared with the Five Minute Friday writing community. Today’s prompt is: DESIGN
Also linking up with Heart Encouragement .
I love how God uses a variety of sources to teach us a single lesson.
Barb – FMF#42
Yes, Barb!! I was thinking the same thing. He is so patient, and loving, and gentle in that way.
Carol, in my 24 years of working with children and families, I have learned a lot about the lenses through which we each view the world. I LOVE your point about the importance of communicating with people who are different. I believe it is in our willingness to ask the questions (and explore the answers) where growth, grace, and healing, are birthed. We need more of this, and I thank you for this reminder today.
I gleaned much from RT Kendall’s book; another book I highly recommend on that subject is “Unpacking Forgiveness” by Chris Brauns. I know nothing about “enneagram,” so greatly appreciate your review of “The Road Back to You.” I will add it to my ever growing reading list of books suggested by this writing group. ~ Cindie at FMF #30
Thanks for the recommendation. I will look for Chris Brauns’ book.
I love reading RT Kendall and his forgiveness book are so good. May be I should try the enneagram one too. Visiting from fmf #4
My daughter and son read before me and found it helpful. Thanks for visiting!