The Wisdom of Three
- mauricekaehler
- Sep 29
- 2 min read

Consider the number three to be an inhale. Space. A preparation for choice.
I'll tell you why...
In many spiritual traditions, 3 represents the union of mind, body, and spirit—the connection between past, present, and future. There is the "Rule of Three" principle in writing: groups of three items, ideas, or actions are more memorable, satisfying, and persuasive than groups of one or two. This pattern creates rhythm, increases emotional resonance, and provides a sense of completeness and balance.
Think of the famous Nike slogan, "Just Do It." Movies and plays follow a three-act structure. Folk and fairy tales are filled with threes ("Three Little Pigs," anyone?).
(Get to the point, Maurice.)
A practical use of the Rule of Three involves making purposeful choices.
So let’s experiment with 3 beats, 3 breaths, and 3 days.
A conversation is happening between you and another. There’s anxiousness. Quick arousal. A sense of not fully being there.
So what can you do to take charge?
3 beats. When a question is asked, say, “Let me think about it,” or “Hold on, you deserve a good reply here.” Then take three beats: three taps of fingers to thumb, three beats of your heart, or a silent counting of 1, 2, 3. Then reply.
In the wait, there is a settling. A brief passage of time. A gathering of your own thoughts. The asker feels that you are giving the question your attention and thoughtfulness—which means you are giving them attention and thoughtfulness. The conversation relaxes as both of you begin to truly listen to each other.
3 breaths. Before the start of anything—running a race, going back into the gym, walking out to make a presentation—take three breaths. Your breathing calms, grounds, and gathers energy. Increased awareness and purpose flow into the action.
3 days. When asked to make a decision that isn’t time-sensitive (that could be a time for 3 beats or 3 breaths—or when you feel the urge to make an impulsive buy—give yourself three days. Create some space. Allow some time for thoughtfulness and discernment before committing. Time lowers the chance of regret and increases the probability of a wise, fruitful choice.
Architect Buckminster Fuller, in proclaiming the tetrahedron as the building block of the universe, said: “You can’t have a chair with two legs. But you can have one with three.”
Fuller implies that a triangular base stabilizes, embodies strength, and supports growth.
So, three you later!
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