Everyone knows that I’m not exactly cutting edge. So it’s no surprise that this book has been around a few years and I’ve just now read it. My friend, Crystal, refers to the temperaments often in conversation and I teased her that one has to learn a whole new language to converse with her. She loaned me the book.
The Temperament God Gave You. It frustrated me at first. I couldn’t decide what my temperament was. I kept thinking 'I tend toward all the flaws of each one and few of the virtues'. (We melancholics do that you know.) Kevin assured me that I’m melancholic. Spouses can be so helpful in seeing us more clearly than we can see ourselves.
A valuable section of the book is how the temperaments affect marriage and parent child relationships. I really thought I had a handle on my children. And I do. But this book taught me more. For instance Dominic is sanguine. He was loading the dishwasher (which he is perfectly capable of doing) and complaining and putzing about it. Normally I would ask him if he wants to be obedient or disobedient. Of course he wants to be obedient, he truly does. That would be enough for a melancholic like me. But that won’t motivate a sanguine internally. The book suggested they need positive, fun challenges. So I told him to see if he could get it done as fast as he runs to first base. I’m brilliant. He finished the job in record time.
So for summer reading that will help you navigate relationships and have fun with your spouse as you try to peg your children together, I highly recommend The Temperament God Gave You by Art and Laraine Bennet.
I recently bought the book myself upon my SIL's recommendation. I have only just started it. I will have to give it a closer look.
Posted by: Sharon | June 15, 2009 at 05:01 PM
You are a melancholic????? Really?? I have no idea WHY that surprises me, as I've never even MET you! LOL!!!!!!
Did you see they have a "spouse" book out now too??? Can't wait to get my hands on THAT one! *wink*
Posted by: SuzanneG | June 23, 2009 at 02:12 AM