Crossing Bridges

Over the past several years my husband and I have challenged ourselves to cross “interesting” bridges.  He has a “fear of heights” issue; I have a “fear of falling” issue.  Together, we decided to face our fears.  So far we have climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia; we’ve walked the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the Natchez Trace Bridge in Franklin, Tennessee.  We’ve also had the chance to ride across the various bridges in New York City and we have driven many times across the Hernando de Soto Bridge spanning the Mississippi - every time praying as we go!

During these interesting adventures, I’ve noticed some things about bridges:

• The construction is complex and intricate
• The height and length of the bridge is determined by the obstacles around it
• The bridge, though built with strong materials, is also built to “give” in certain conditions
• The purpose of the bridge is to connect one place to another

And so it is with the “bridges” of life…

• Life bridges usually take some time and care to build
• The measurements of life bridges are determined by the circumstances and feelings of those involved
• Life bridges must be made of the right stuff:  caring, determination, forgiveness, reconciliation, hope, faith and love…these are the things that give strength yet offer needed flexibility
• Life bridges are built to connect or re-connect people…but the actual crossing of the bridge is an individual choice

So today I am asking myself: 

 Are there some bridges I need to build? 

 Are there some bridges already in place that I need to cross?

The answer is a resounding YES!

I am determined, so I pray,  face my fears, and take the first step.