“A chord of three strands is not quickly broken.” -- Ecclesiastes 4:12
This is more a story of commitment than it is of medieval folklore.
The wives who lived within the walls of the Weinsberg Castle in Germany were well aware of the fortune it held: gold, silver, jewels, and wealth beyond comprehension.
No one knows precisely what was said in the hastily gathered meeting, or who came up with the brilliant plan. It may have been the Duke’s clever wife . . . or even one of the servants’ spouses. But before sundown, a messenger emerged from the castle with a letter addressed to enemy King Konrad.
Although the King had already agreed to the release of all women and children, the Weinsberg women refused to leave unless one of their own conditions was met. They demanded that they be allowed to leave at daybreak with whatever they could carry on their backs.
The triumphant King, wishing the matter to end quickly and peacefully, considered their proposal. After all, he had already granted them safe passage. Taking a few pocketfuls of valuables couldn’t possibly make a dent in the massive fortune. There would be plenty left behind to add to his own royal treasury. Additionally, the women could rebuild their lives; he'd be forever hailed as a wonderful and merciful king.
The messenger returned to the castle with his noble approval.
At sunrise the next morning, the massive castle gates creaked open. Out marched the women, their children close behind. But that's not all that emerged from the castle. Carried on the backs of the women were their husbands; unmarried women carried their brothers or fathers. Each woman staggered under the weight of her burden while the men struggled to keep from slipping to the ground.
King Konrad chuckled with admiration. Outraged at the gall of these women, his soldiers demanded the ‘traitors’ be executed at once. The King refused! He had already given his sacred word that they could take whatever they could carry on their backs. The women of the castle were therefore allowed safe exit along with their beloved menfolk, faithful ‘til death.
Today many relationships fail because we give up too easily. Not the Weinsberg wives; they had their men’s backs. Life is complicated - relationships are challenging. Human partnerships are not easy, but forever rewarding . . . and a gift from God! A chord of three strands – two people and one God, is not easily unraveled.
Teacher, two are better than one! When I fall, my friend can help me up. But three is better than two – if You are that third party. Shine Your loving grace on me, so that I too may love without conditions and that Your will may be done in my life. Amen.
