Discovering Life Lessons from an Unexpected Place.
In the beginning, I simply shrugged it off as a streak of bad luck. However, as time went on, it became clear that this was not a temporary phenomenon but seemingly a new norm I had to grapple with.
Before I paint an overly dreary picture, let me clarify that this story is about a peculiar yet amusing life lesson I unearthed from a bridge. Yes, you read right, a bridge. I had recently moved to a new apartment along the Miami River, and it wasn’t long before I observed an uncanny pattern: almost every time I left home, the bridge would open. This peculiar coincidence trailed me everywhere! even on a trip to Seattle when an infrequently opening bridge chose my commute to defy its norms. “This hardly ever happens,” said my puzzled Lyft driver. Little did he know, I had come to expect such bridge behavior.
It’s worth noting that Miami’s bridges, especially those spanning the Miami River — the shortest working river in the U.S. — are known for opening frequently. This bustling waterway supports large cargo ships and, in true Miami style, is a hotspot for lively yacht parties, causing the bridges to frequently open and close. In my case, they seemed to perfectly time their operation to my departures.
Over time, this bridge, initially a source of humor and minor annoyance, turned into an unlikely mentor. I observed three invaluable lessons about patience and acceptance, reinforcing the belief that wisdom can often be found in the most unexpected — and yes, sometimes frustrating — places.
Embracing Acceptance
Every time I left the house it felt like a race against the clock. I need to make it out before the bridge is opening. But that never changed my reality— the bridge was most likely about to open regardless.
I was always frustrated. Especially when I had pressing things to do and the bridge stood in the way. One day though it clicked for me — why waste my energy on the uncontrollable?
It became pretty clear that my choices were: Do something about it OR accept my reality. Acceptance isn’t passivity; it’s choosing to not waste energy on the uncontrollable.
I chose acceptance. Switching my mindset from “WTF! Why doesn’t this bridge go down. Or becoming annoyed to develop an appreciation for the consistency of the bridge’s comedic timing.
Savor the Unexpected
When the bridge opens, I am forced to wait. Initially, this felt like wasted time. Gradually, I’ve learned to savor these unexpected pockets of free time, utilizing them to enjoy the scenery, catch up on news, or just breathe.
It taught me the importance of slowing down, taking a pause, and appreciating the world around me. There is so much beauty to be seen in the world and we often lose sight of this because we are in constant motion.
Accepting life’s unpredictability has eased my anxieties and helped me face unforeseen situations with resilience and grace.
There’s Always a Bigger Picture
The bridge does not open to spite me. It opens to allow the passage of larger vessels, an integral part of Miami’s maritime ecosystem. This reminded me that there’s always a bigger picture, a broader perspective, and often, we are a small part of it. It is important to accept this reality to navigate through life more peacefully.
I often think about my faith in this context. I’m wondering how many times that bridge may have saved my life or delayed me just enough in a way that’s perfect in the grand scheme of things.
Don’t passively participate in your life.
Not to sound all “woo-woo” but it’s important to make space in your thoughts to observe, reflect and learn from the experiences in our lives.
The Miami river bridge, once a source of inconvenience, has become a profound teacher, imparting wisdom in the most unexpected ways. The lessons in patience and acceptance I’ve learned from its constant opening have not only eased my daily commute but also enriched my life, proving that sometimes, our greatest lessons come from the most unexpected places — create the space to receive these lessons.
