Bridge

Kent Beck’s thought provoking post on, what he calls, ‘bridge model’ to make connections with others:

Here’s the mental model that finally helped me: a bridge.

I can unilaterally construct a bridge to another person. I can reach out. Make contact. Say something real. The further the distance—emotionally, culturally, socially—the harder the bridge is to build. But it’s possible with almost anyone of positive intent. (It’s also possible with people whose intent toward me is negative or merely transactional. That’s a different problem.)

With the bridge in place, I can walk halfway across.

Half. Way. I can make an investment. Do something a little uncomfortable. Reveal something true about myself. Share an observation that matters to me. Ask a question that shows I’m paying attention.

And then I have to stop.

I have to stand in the middle of the bridge and wait.