The Bridge That Wasn't Mandatory

The Bridge That Wasn't Mandatory

Once upon a time there was a man who knew the village on the other side of the river. He knew that it was difficult to get there, but there was a bridge that could be crossed — though he didn't build it, he just knew where it was.

One day, an acquaintance of his came along who wanted to cross. The man showed him the way and even lent him the key to the bridge. He didn't ask for money or anything in return.

However, the person crossing the river noticed a few rotting planks on the other side and started blaming the person who gave him the key. As if he had built the bridge, as if he should have fixed it.

The man then said only this:

– I didn't promise that the bridge would be perfect. I only promised to show you where it starts.

Whether you cross it or not is up to you.

The keyman was patient, but he knew: the bridge would not stay open forever. One day the gate quietly closed. Not out of anger, but because the keyman knew — there are paths that

you cannot take instead of someone else.

And those who did not step on it, stayed on the shore. And the keyman went on to show others the way

— because time and opportunity wait for no one.