“Triangles are very strong shapes which makes them important when building strong and stable structures.”
The notion of an “iron triangle” resonates with me, just as it does when a child picks up one to tap out a rhythm for the first time.
Thinking of triangles stimulates reflection on the lowest common denominators observed in formation of strength, stability, value, and cohesion. This perspective of a three-point structure is the same concept that appealed to me about Dr. Mark Ragins book on counseling and journeying alongside people with serious mental health challenges like addiction, bipolar, depression, psychosis, PTSD, anxiety, etc. At Titus 2 I had already recognized and used the same three pivot points for instructing spiritual, emotional, and mental fitness that Dr Ragins applied…….
1.) source & strength of
one’s embraced IDENTITY,
3.) one’s perception of her EXPERIENCE OF REALITY, and
3.) the role of COMMUNITY.
The strength and persistence of the iron triangle is evident in Scripture, too.
We are fearfully and wonderfully created by God in the image of God, with our own unique whole and complete triune human existence as spirit, soul, and body (1 Thessalonians 5:23.)
Our struggles in life boil down to three obstacles that lie at the root of all temptations … lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and pride of life. (Genesis 3:6, Luke 4, 1 John 2:16).
The foundational aspect of a triangle is also evidenced in the fullness of the identity available to us through baptism into the nature and character of God that guides us into wholeness….”in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19)
And the eternal values and benefits of embracing a life pursuing godly agape love are built on a triad of three, as well….
(1 Corinthians 13:13)….”And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.”