You are a Gift

We all yearn for healthy connections to feel seen, understood, and cared for. Yet, these days it often feels like we’ve stopped trying to really see, understand, or care for others. As the world becomes more automated and less certain, ideological divides seem to grow wider and more filled with anger - ‘othering’ anyone who doesn’t align with what we think or want to be true about the world in order to feel safer in it. 

So, in this month’s edition, I don’t want to do anything else but offer each enneagram type a bit of encouragement and affirmation. 

Dear Enneagram 1:

Your integrity and commitment are a powerful force for good. In a world that feels broken, remember that your job is not to fix what is wrong, but to just be present with others in the messiness. May you remember that serenity comes not from improving things, but from a heart that is at peace with what is. Making things right isn’t your burden to carry. 

Dear Enneagram 2: 

Your generosity and compassion are a light in the darkness. As you reach out to others, remember that your most profound gift is not what you do for people, but in your ability to see others completely and compassionately. May you remember that you do not need to take care of everyone. Your needs matter too.

Dear Enneagram 3: 

Your drive is inspiring, bringing clarity of needed action in a world full of noise and uncertainty. As you do your work today, remember that your greatest gift isn’t in what you accomplish, but in just being uniquely you. May you delight in stepping down from center stage and tuning into your emotions and authentic desires today.  

Dear Enneagram 4

Your depth and empathy are a sanctuary for those who feel lost. Your gift is to feel the full spectrum of human emotion, and in doing so, to help others find meaning in their own stories. In a world that can feel superficial, you naturally bring authenticity and beauty to the conversation. May you recognize that you are not lacking in anything, releasing your comparisons with others, and stand grounded in an experience of feeling totally complete.

Dear Enneagram 5: 

Your wisdom and knowledge are a gift to us as you naturally see what others miss, bringing thoughtfulness and clarity to complex situations. In a world of chaos you have a way of offering calm, thoughtful insights. In this world of divisiveness and uncertainty, may you feel free to relinquish any mental preoccupations with knowing, or guarding against overwhelm. May you freely access your heart and body centers, allowing yourself to be open and receptive, holding on to nothing and holding nothing back. 

Dear Enneagram 6: 

In a world of increasing uncertainty and divide, it may feel like you're constantly on alert, but remember that it’s your courage, not your caution, that is your greatest strength. You are loyal, prepared, and a dependable rock for those in your care. May you trust that the guidance you seek is an inner wisdom that is  already within you. May you draw strength from your deep well of courage, knowing that you are capable of facing any uncertainty that comes your way. You are a warm and faithful presence. 

Dear Enneagram 7: 

We are in awe of your sense of adventure and optimism. Your desire for new experiences and your ability to find joy in the present moment are gifts that you bring to the world. Remember that you don’t need to outrun discomfort, and that optimal experiences are found in being fully present in the moment. May you find freedom in stillness, embracing the full spectrum of your emotions, knowing that pain is temporary. 

Dear Enneagram 8:

You are a natural protector. Your passion and action-orientation create a sense of safety for those around you. Remember to let others in and allow yourself to be vulnerable, which is a strength and a path to deeper connection. May you live today from a place of innocence and tenderness, showing those around you just how big and wonderful your heart truly is. Allow yourself to power-down and experience some softness. 

Dear Enneagram 9: 

We are grateful for your gentle and accepting presence in a world that is far too quick to fight.  You have a remarkable ability to see all sides and create a sense of peace and harmony, but always remember that your voice is as important as everyone else’s. May you honor your own goals, wants and boundaries today. You are at your best when you advocate for yourself and we need to hear all the wisdom you have to offer. 

May we each listen to hear, seek to understand before being understood, and be open to seeing things from new perspectives every day.