Where were we: Reflections on the Bridge

Where were you when the bridge collapsed? It’s no surprise we’ve been checking in with each other, as we did when Kennedy was shot. August 1, 2007 at 6:05 pm was a galvanizing moment for us. An artery was severed in our life together, and we had to talk about it.

Opinion: Where were we: Reflections on the bridge

I’ve recounted my shock and disbelief – I heard the news as a concert in the park began. The folk duo sang “Precious Lord,” instead of their usual upbeat opening number. We’ve reported how often we used the bridge, our last trip over it, those we know who just missed the collapse, memories…. I knew the bridge well – my route from south Minneapolis to visit Mom in Roseville. I remember that straight stretch rising high above the river, with a view of skyscrapers, bridges, and tumbling water. As we crossed the bridge at holiday time when the children were little, we’d sing “Over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house we go….”

Such conversation has been our way of coming to terms with a new and harsh reality. But now it is time to ask the question in a different way: where were we when decisions were being made about priorities? Where were we when the values were voted on that would define those priorities? If only someone had explained to us the implications of “no new taxes,” the consequences of allowing narrow self interest to drive our public life! Now we know. We put money into infrastructure because infrastructure is about human life and the sustainability of our life together. How could we have forgotten?

We need a trip back to basics, for our foundations have been shaken. As the inspectors examine the footings of every bridge, it is imperative that we scrutinize the underpinnings, the moral buttresses, of our community, What values drive our life together, and where do they take us? Was it not our desire to fill our own pockets that led to inaction on this tragedy waiting to happen, this abyss?

Greed is incompatible with community. We are in this together. Millennia ago, we exhausted our supply of caves and found we needed to live together in order to sustain life. We still do. Ironically, it is in our true self interest to care for one another, to build and maintain the bridges that connect us, literally and figuratively.

If we want to honor the lives that were lost, and those who risked their safety to help others, we will vote for values that can support and bear the weight of our life together.

Jean Greenwood, Minneapolis
educator, mediator, Presbyterian minister