Teaching Story - The Brooklyn Bridge

by Life Positive

Obstacles are not something that one asks for; rather they are hindrances which one tries to avoid at all costs. However, there was a man who overcame all such obstacles on the basis of sheer determination and persistence and proved to the world that where there is hope, there will be success.

In the year 1883, John Roebling, an engineer, came out with the idea of building a spectacular bridge connecting Long Island with New York. It was deemed to be an impossible feat by experts, as no other bridge of that magnitude had ever been built before. In spite of repeated discouragement from all quarters, John was convinced about the possible success of his dream. The only support he had was from his son Washington, who was then an upcoming engineer. Together they made a detailed plan and started the mammoth task. However, a tragic accident occurred at the site, killing John, which just confirmed the doubts of the experts who had been against the idea of building this bridge. Any other man would have given up but Washington persisted in trying to fulfil his father’s dream. Fate struck again and Washington suffered severe brain damage, which left him immobile, neither able to move or even talk. A huge uproar started about scrapping the construction project, as Washington was deemed unable to continue with this work. Hoping against hope, Washington persisted, communicating with his wife through his only moving finger. He developed a code to make her understand his communication. It took 13 years for his wife to interpret his instructions and pass them on to engineers. And today we have the Brooklyn Bridge, standing as a tribute to the persistence and determination of mankind, bringing hope to millions who are ready to give up at the face of obstacles.

The Bridge seems to give out just one message to all that see it standing today, “Everything is possible” if you only have the courage to dream!

Naked came I from my mother’s womb, naked go I thither. The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh. Blessed be the name of the Lord. – The Bible Job 1 - 21