Building Bridges

Building bridges is hard work, and not something easily done. There is a measure of perseverance and determination in building one. First, would be the anchor, or the base of the structure on both ends. They have to be built on solid ground. These structures will be the key foundation of a bridge. If built on loose ground, the bridge will not be able to handle the stress on the structure when the connecting arms are extended. This goes without saying that it has to be strong on both sides.

The easiest way to continue from there is to build each side and meet somewhere in the middle. That way, one side doesn't over-extend and topple over in the process. For short bridges, meeting in the middle is usually the end of it. Once secured in place, the bridge is done. For longer ones, additional supports must be established first. In addition, suspension bridges would need very strong cables to bear all the weight.

In addition to the actual building, the materials would have to be the right ones. Brick and mortar are good for short ones, but using it on suspension bridges would be quite disastrous. Finally, there's the deal with maintaining it. Stone bridges need constant reinforcement with concrete when the stones erode. For wood, brittle or weathered planks would have to be replaced every now and then. For steel bridges, nuts and bolts would need checking for hairline cracks and for metal-twisting.

Building bridges is hardwork, but the benefits of a good bridge more than makes up for it. A bridge connects. And building bridges isn't such a wasteful endeavor.

It isn't much different for people, you know..