Don’t Burn Bridges Just to Light Your Path

Don’t Burn Bridges Just to Light Your Path

by Kateb Nuri-Alim Shunnar

You ever find yourself ready to throw the whole relationship, opportunity, or situation away? I’m talking about standing on the edge of a figurative bridge, gas can in one hand and a lighter in the other, muttering something like, “I don’t need this mess anymore!” It’s that impulsive urge to let the fire fly, watch it all go up in smoke, and convince yourself it’s for the best. But here’s the hard truth: burning bridges might make you feel powerful in the heat of the moment, but what’s your game plan when you still need that bridge later? That’s the catch once it’s ashes, it’s gone. And while the fire might light up your night temporarily, it won’t guide you forever. Life’s about connections, not quick fixes.

Let’s break it down. A bridge isn’t just a way to get from A to B it’s a link, a lifeline, sometimes even a lifeboat. When you burn it, you’re cutting off more than just access; you’re severing possibilities. And yeah, sometimes the temptation feels justified. Somebody hurt you, that job wasn’t what you signed up for, or that family member said that one thing again. But when emotions are running the show, logic is nowhere to be found. Burning bridges is like flipping a chessboard mid-game sure, it’s dramatic, but now you’ve got no moves left.

I learned this the hard way. Years ago, I had a fallout with someone close to me one of those situations where every conversation turned into a minefield. The anger was mutual, the silence deafening. My ego whispered, “Burn it. Walk away. Who needs them?” But something stopped me. Call it divine intervention or just a flash of common sense, but I realized I didn’t want to lose them over one season of misunderstandings. I reached out, swallowed my pride (tasted awful, by the way), and we rebuilt that bridge brick by brick. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. That relationship? Still standing. That lesson? Burned into my brain instead of the bridge.

Here’s the thing sometimes it’s not about the other person at all. Sometimes the bridge you’re about to torch leads back to an opportunity, a lesson, or a blessing you didn’t even recognize at the time. That old job you quit with a dramatic exit? Maybe someone there could’ve connected you to your dream gig. That person you wrote off? Maybe they were placed in your life to teach you something about patience, compassion, or boundaries. Not every bridge is easy to cross, but that doesn’t mean it’s useless.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying you should keep every connection alive. Some bridges are unstable and lead nowhere good. But there’s a big difference between setting boundaries and lighting everything up like a fireworks display. Boundaries protect; burning destroys. And when you’re out here playing arsonist with your relationships, jobs, or opportunities, don’t be surprised when you find yourself stranded on an island, wondering why nobody’s sending a rescue boat.

Here’s where the divine comes into play. If anyone has a reason to burn bridges, it’s the Creator. Let’s be real humanity is out here messing up daily. But the Creator doesn’t toss us aside or cut us off. Instead, we’re met with grace, patience, and second chances. The bridges between us and the Creator are built on forgiveness, compassion, and love qualities that, let’s face it, we could all use more of. So why are we out here burning bridges like it’s a sport?

If you’re tempted to torch a connection, ask yourself this: Am I acting out of wisdom or pride? Is this about growth, or is it just my ego trying to flex? Nine times out of ten, the answer will humble you. Trust me, I’ve been there. And if you’re still feeling that urge to light a match, remember this: it’s always easier to cross a bridge you didn’t burn.

Much love ❤️ Kateb Nuri-Alim Shunnar..