Russ Hudson, co-author of The Wisdom of the Enneagram, says the purpose of the Enneagram is not to put us in a box, but to help us see the box we are already in, and how to get out. The Enneagram is a map that allows us to see the patterns and characteristics of our type which enables us to see when we get stuck in our box. When our inner observer can help us catch ourselves in the act, we are able to pause and make a choice about whether we engage that same behavior or not. This is a life-long process that allows us to embrace greater freedom with compassion and curiosity.

Spiritual development is a long and arduous journey, an adventure through strange lands full of surprises, joy, beauty, difficulties, and even dangers.  Roberto Assagiolo

As you start this journey of self-discovery, perhaps the blessing below will give you strength, support and insight along your path.

Beloved Is Where We Begin

If you would enter into the wilderness,
do not begin without a blessing,

Do not leave without hearing who you are:
Beloved, named by the One who has traveled this path
before you.

Do not go without letting it echo in your ears,
and if you find it is hard to let it into your heart.
do not despair.
That is what this journey is for.

I cannot promise this blessing will free you
from danger, from fear, from hunger, or thirst,
from the scorching of the sun or the fall of the night.

But I can tell you that on this path
there will be help.
I can tell you that on this way
there will be rest.

I can tell you that you will know
the strange graces that come to our aid
only on a road such as this,

that fly to meet us bearing comfort and strength,
that come alongside us for no other cause
than to lean themselves toward our ear
and with their curious insistence whisper our name:

Beloved.
Beloved.
Beloved.

by Jan Richardson