The Push and Pull of Life
Our Precious Connectedness
By Nita Gilger
An arch derives its strength directly from its shape. The downward force from the top of an arch is carried along the curving form all the way down to the base. At the same time, the ground pushes up with equal force. The arch was the technique used by the Roman Empire for building aqueducts to carry water. The design was also used for bridges and many buildings. The architecture of Italy is one of my favorite parts of visiting that country. There is so much history and artistry to experience. It is simply amazing how structures have stood the test of time and are still so incredibly beautiful. Most cultures over time and history have utilized the wisdom and ingenuity of the Romans.
Even here at Possum Kingdom Lake where I live, there are arches supporting our Hwy 16 bridge over the Brazos River. It is an 18-stone arched bridge that spans the Brazos River about a mile from the dam. Its length is 433 feet. It is the longest arch bridge in Texas. Construction materials were quarried from local limestone. The bridge was built by WPA workers from the Great Depression. Coal miners were brought in to help build, cut, and quarry the stone. There were approximately 74 skilled workers and 250 unskilled laborers who took two years to build the bridge. Building this bridge took ingenuity, teamwork, and a web of connectedness.
A life well-lived is like an arch. When we can hold the paradoxes of life with all the push and pressures therein, we can develop an enduring quality. To my mind, I know that I cannot have that kind of strength and perseverance all on my own. I need the molding, shaping, and building of my life to be held together by the mortar of God's love. I am only one stone and I understand that I cannot stand alone. I need proper support from trusted friends, family, and my faith community. Together, we create an arch that is strong enough to support each other through all kinds of weather and challenges.
Since the 1940's this lovely arch bridge on the Brazos River has needed and received repairs. Even though the bridge is well-designed and has stood the test of time, it still needs check-ups and bolstering every now and then. As a child of God, I know that I am beautifully created with love. Even so, I need a lot of repairs along the way and I am extremely grateful for those who see my cracks and fissures and love me still. I am thankful for the everlasting love of God which cannot be overcome by any force in the world. It is a constant, fresh, and stalwart kind of strength that holds me in and through all times.
As a country and a planet, we need arch-living more than ever. We are all connected. What will we build? Brick by brick, we must do better.
Prayer: Dear God, the arch builder of my life, show me anew how to deal with the push and pull of life. May I always depend on your gracious, loving Presence and recognize, with gratitude, the arch people and gifts of my life. Help us to actively build a better world together. Amen
Even here at Possum Kingdom Lake where I live, there are arches supporting our Hwy 16 bridge over the Brazos River. It is an 18-stone arched bridge that spans the Brazos River about a mile from the dam. Its length is 433 feet. It is the longest arch bridge in Texas. Construction materials were quarried from local limestone. The bridge was built by WPA workers from the Great Depression. Coal miners were brought in to help build, cut, and quarry the stone. There were approximately 74 skilled workers and 250 unskilled laborers who took two years to build the bridge. Building this bridge took ingenuity, teamwork, and a web of connectedness.
A life well-lived is like an arch. When we can hold the paradoxes of life with all the push and pressures therein, we can develop an enduring quality. To my mind, I know that I cannot have that kind of strength and perseverance all on my own. I need the molding, shaping, and building of my life to be held together by the mortar of God's love. I am only one stone and I understand that I cannot stand alone. I need proper support from trusted friends, family, and my faith community. Together, we create an arch that is strong enough to support each other through all kinds of weather and challenges.
Since the 1940's this lovely arch bridge on the Brazos River has needed and received repairs. Even though the bridge is well-designed and has stood the test of time, it still needs check-ups and bolstering every now and then. As a child of God, I know that I am beautifully created with love. Even so, I need a lot of repairs along the way and I am extremely grateful for those who see my cracks and fissures and love me still. I am thankful for the everlasting love of God which cannot be overcome by any force in the world. It is a constant, fresh, and stalwart kind of strength that holds me in and through all times.
As a country and a planet, we need arch-living more than ever. We are all connected. What will we build? Brick by brick, we must do better.
Prayer: Dear God, the arch builder of my life, show me anew how to deal with the push and pull of life. May I always depend on your gracious, loving Presence and recognize, with gratitude, the arch people and gifts of my life. Help us to actively build a better world together. Amen