Total strangers found this man about to jump off this bridge. Look at the compassion. Look at the grip. They held onto him for an hour until help arrived. We need more of this and less of the things that divide us. The human experience is hard and every once in a while we need to be held onto. And more than we might think we need to hold onto those who are at risk.

So how does life feel for you today? Are you doing ok and feel able to hold someone who needs a little encouragement? Or are you feeling more like you need to be held? I might imagine that most of us are somewhere in between but either way – take some time to locate your position on this ever-changing continuum.

Here’s the deal – everybody has a story. They have weights that they carry everyday called their past. No one is exempt. So in addition to being kind to yourself as you work your way through your days, keep an eye out for others who leave signs everywhere that their weights are too heavy to carry alone.

Imagine waking up that morning and seeing a man on the edge of a bridge about to jump. The one man seems to be saying something to the man who was going to jump. Something like – “I don’t know what you’re carrying but I’ve got you now. You’re safe. We can get you help and we need you in this world. You’re here for a purpose and without you – this world can’t be whole”.

Another thing that touches me is that once the man is secured and tied off safely to the bridge structure – people still held onto him for dear life. Look at the person holding his legs. And his neck. Human touch is so important. It is life-giving and assures us that we are loved and cared for. Nothing will ever replace the power of touch. Even when all the world’s safety nets protect us – we need to be held sometimes.

You never know when this kind of opportunity will come your way. But when it does be prepared to leave your mark. So let me challenge you to practice regularly. We may not see a man on the edge of a bridge but we see people everyday on the edge of their marriage or the edge of their job or the edge of their finances. And some people have been forced to the margins of society and live everyday on the edge. Simply look around you and grab some folks and hang on. Everyday gives us opportunities to save lives if we pay attention.

Most importantly – if you feel like you need help, get it. Find a friend and talk. Find a pastor or counselor. Don’t do life alone. There’s a big world waiting to help with ropes and belts and hugs. And like this picture shows – together we can do anything. Even save a life.