Praise the bridge that carried you over. 

I read this quote by 19th century English dramatist George Colman in passing, but it stuck with me.

If you’re reading this, you faced some troubled waters this past year. And if you’re reading this, you made it through. You may be tattered, tired, a bit wet around the edges, but you made it. I’m willing to bet you are also transformed ~ stronger, wiser, humbler.

Troubled waters can look like a muddy puddle or a torrential deluge. Regardless, we all need some help getting over it. What bridge carried you over? What gave you the courage to slowly put one foot in front of the other until you were on the other side? Was it a person, a song, your faith? Maybe the bridge was supported by a tribe of ordinary hands.

Praise them.

The holiday season is like a bridge from one year to the next ~ a time of reflection and gratitude for the old year and hope and promise for the new one. As Christians celebrate Christmas, we remember baby Jesus was born to lay himself down for us ~ a bridge to forgiveness and eternal life. 

Praise him.

Simon and Garfunkel’s Bridge Over Troubled Water reminds us of the gift of human bridges ~ When you’re weary, feeling small. When tears are in your eyes, I’ll dry them all. I’m on your side. Oh, when times get rough, and friends just can’t be found. Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down. 

No matter how much darkness or pain, there is always a bridge to light and joy.

Cross it.

Praise it.

And when able, lay yourself down, and be the bridge for someone else. 

“Praise the bridge that carried you over.” ~ George Colman

Think on These Things ~ Alicia