Strength doesn’t come from physical power. It comes from a strong indomitable will that never gives up. Welcome to Live Best Skilled. I am Himani your host and Today, I’m going to tell you the story of a bridge that’s more than just stone and bricks; it’s a symbol of willpower, determination, resilience, and connection.

So, there’s this beautiful village, right? And in the middle of it, there’s this ancient bridge that’s been standing there forever. It’s been there for ages and witnessed more life, more hustle and bustle than the local fair or a market. It has stood strong for years, linking people and withstanding all kinds of weather.

One evening, little Maya and her friends were playing by the riverbank, running around, playing,  chasing butterflies, and laughing. The weather was pleasant, the river was calm, and it was just one of those perfect days. Suddenly, the bridge caught Maya’s attention, and she became curious. She went to her nanima and asked, “Nanima, can you tell us the story of this bridge?”

Her Nanima, sitting on a rock, with her warm smile, said, “Yes! Of course, I’ll tell you the story about this bridge. She called all the children and she then began telling the story, “Many, many years ago, there was a man living in this village. His name was Vikram. Vikram was not just any villager—he was a dreamer. You see, this river divided the village, and when the monsoon rains came, it was almost impossible for people to cross the river. Life was difficult, particularly during the monsoon season. One day, after seeing a family stuck on the other side of the river, Vikram decided to do something about it. He dreamt of building a bridge on the river.”

Now Vikram didn’t have all the skills and resources he needed to make the bridge, so he reached out for help. He talked to skilled builders and engineers from nearby villages. Together, they planned the bridge, using their knowledge and experience. He asked the people of his village for money and other help. They gathered stones and wood, working day and night. Vikram poured every ounce of his energy into the bridge, but he couldn’t have done it alone. The villagers joined in, inspired by his determination.

And you know what? Very soon they built that bridge together. It wasn’t just a way to cross the river—it became a symbol of strength and teamwork. Even when the rains came and the river rose, threatening to wash it all away, the bridge stood firm. Vikram and the villagers had created something beautiful and lasting.

All the kids were listening intently and carefully. “One of the kids asked, ‘Wasn’t Vikram worried that the river would destroy the bridge?

Nanima said. “Yes, there were times when Vikram had doubts. The river wasn’t always calm. During the monsoons, it would flood and try to destroy the bridge. But Vikram believed in what they had built. One day, a huge storm came, and everyone worried that the bridge might collapse. But Vikram said, ‘This bridge is not just made of stones, but also of faith. It will hold.’ And it did. They all again worked together to repair and strengthen the bridge by different means, and it was still standing strong.

Maya asked her nanima, “How do I stay strong when things are hard and difficult to face in life?” To this nanima replied, “Just like Vikram needed support to build the bridge, be it the help and guidance from builders and engineers from other villages or raising funds and seeking physical help from the villagers it’s okay to ask for support when things are difficult to manage alone. Once a strong bridge is made it can handle difficult times and stay strong.

The kids looked at the bridge differently after that. Whenever Maya crossed the bridge, she remembered the story of Vikram and how he never gave up. She knew that just like the bridge, she could stand firm in any situation in life.

We all have the strength to face the storms in our lives. We’re tougher than we think.

Always embrace your inner strength and true strength isn’t just about standing tall alone; it’s knowing when to lean on others and connect with those around you. When times get tough, don’t hesitate to ask for help and help those who need you.

Thank you for joining us on Live Best Skilled. Until next time, remember: we are all bridges, connecting hope and strength in our lives.  Let’s encourage and help each other to make this world a better place to live. Stay strong, stay connected, and live your best-skilled life. May god bless you.