Bridging the Gap

I like bridges, not just because their infinite variety of shapes, sizes and construction materials appeal to me in different ways, but because of the way even though they stand fixed and firm, by their very nature they invite and initiate movement.

 Whether taking a quiet moment standing in the middle of a stream looking down on the reflections of trees above, or crossing a city bridge in peak hour traffic, they are purpose built. Travelling under a bridge, especially on a river, gives you a completely different perspective than going over it. One is more reflective, appreciating the bridge for what it is, but being somewhat detached, while with the other you are being swept along in the flow, and having to keep up to speed.

We can ponder about the metaphorical crossroads we encounter in our lives, where it’s often confusing which direction is best, but I find bridges can offer a more obvious way forward and a greater sense of hope.

Their ease in taking you from one place to another that was either previously inaccessible, or took a long time to reach by an arduous roundabout route. Their ability to facilitate the coming together of two sides which were previously separated. A means of escape when danger looms. A new starting point. An alternative when the path you’re following seems to be leading nowhere. An invitation to explore new possibilities. An avenue through which to gain new insights and understandings.

Knowing not only which bridge to cross if that’s what is needed at some point in our lives, but when to cross it, may feel just as confusing as that crossroads moment. But at least there’s only one direction, and that’s forward, so take courage and grab the handrail.

A bridge is simply a means to an end. It’s one thing to approach it, it’s another thing entirely to cross it.

Do you ever feel

you’re on the road to nowhere?

Cross the bridge instead