Some teachers describe the Enneagram in terms of a GPS or rumble strips on the highway - a way to keep us on track and let us know if we are starting to stray off the path.

I like to think of the Enneagram as an old-fashioned map.

My dad was a cartographer - a mapmaker. Specifically, he created topographical maps. He painstakingly recorded the highs and lows, the elevations of the land and the waterways making it easier for his clients to navigate the properties they sought to develop.

It’s been awhile since we have been in touch and I wanted to check in on you and your Enneagram journey. Have you found some ways to practice good self-care? Have you learned anything especially helpful during these crazy weeks and months? Have you noticed that insight into others has helped you better understand and communicate with them?

Lately I have been reflecting a lot on time. Anybody else?

It used to be that my thoughts around time looked different. How much time for a task? What time is that appointment? What time do we need to leave? How many things can I get done in this time? When will I have the time? How will I find the time? What is the time?

Another week has passed and we are still trying to make our way through the abundant questions around how we do life right now in these ever-changing days. My conversations this week have been filled with weary uncertainty, questions, hopes and fears. As we bring this week to a close, in honor of Mother’s Day, I want to turn to love.

As I was working on preparing this message for you today, I was admittedly distracted. My mind has been swirling with racing thoughts and questions, struggling with focus. We have settled into a new kind of normal rhythm here. It is working now, and yet we anticipate more changes as the days go by. The news of the ravages of this virus remains overwhelming. But as I practice mindfulness, set aside the racing thoughts and sort through my feelings this week, the one that stands out is JOY!

oday, in a pre-COVID world, we would be strolling down the romantic streets of Paris, exploring shops, relaxing in a perfect sidewalk café, admiring the beautiful people, and climbing the steps of the Eiffel Tower to gaze at the city bathed in the warm colors of sunset. This week marks 35 years of marriage and we were going to celebrate in Paris! Paris! In the Springtime!

oday in our connection email I want to thank and celebrate our beloved Anne Williams, Pastor of Congregational Care at RezDowntown! She is developing an insightful video interview series to offer care to our community, our city, and well beyond during this time of crisis. Anne shows genuine compassion and concern for all of us and it has been an honor to serve with her on the Care Team at RezDT.

How are you doing? That’s a question we are all asking each other. Checking in on friends, family, neighbors, those on the front lines, and this Community.