Like the geode, we develop an exterior armor early in life meant to protect us from suffering. As an Enneagram teacher I understand this protective armor to be our Enneagram type—deeply rooted patterns and habits of feeling, thinking, and behaving. We are unaware that in an effort to protect us, these patterns also limit our growth and receptivity to the Divine. ..
Our spiritual journey invites us to bring our shadow into the light, a place where we experience God’s healing love and grace.
Hidden in the recent traumatic events in our nation is a holy invitation to approach ourselves and others with compassion and mercy.
In the beautifully illustrated book, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, Charlie Mackesyoffers wisdom for young and old alike. Sitting together on a tree branch, the mole asks the boy, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” “Kind,” said the boy. The pandemic...
Life during a pandemic brings unexpected, unwelcome feelings. What if we were to meet those feelings at the door and graciously “welcome and entertain them all” as Rumi suggests in “The Guest House?” This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A...
by Mary Noble Garcia Listening to the sacred story of each person who comes to receive spiritual direction has been both privilege and gift. This gift was given in new ways as I listened to the stories of hundreds of people through my participation in the...
by Mary Noble Garcia As I work toward my teacher certification in the Enneagram, I have been reflecting on the ways I am called to live more authentically. A quote by teacher and author, Helen Palmer, inspires me: “The power to choose where we place our...
by Mary Noble Garcia “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” —Frederick...
by Mary Noble Garcia About two years ago I was invited to be a part of a women’s writing group. My first response was, “Me? I am not a writer.” In my prayer I felt a nudge to listen to a very quiet voice that said, “What a great opportunity!” I was reminded of...
by Mary Noble Garcia We had just entered those months in Minnesota when there is hope for spring. Long before my alarm sounded, I awoke to an unusual noise coming through the windows, which had been shut tight against the cold. I quickly got out of bed, put on a...
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