In a time when America feels increasingly divided, it’s tempting to think that the only choices are to take sides or to withdraw altogether. But I believe there is another path—one that we can walk right here in Springfield, Missouri. It’s the path of being a bridge builder.
At its heart, bridge building means working to connect people who might otherwise remain apart. It’s about creating space for respect, conversation, and common purpose—even when we don’t see eye to eye.
Recently, I came across a pledge that captures this calling beautifully:
“I commit to resist political extremes. I will think humbly, speak respectfully, seek common good, and live as a bridge-builder in my community. I will not let anger or fear decide my politics, but will work for fairness, dignity, and shared humanity.”
Those words resonate with me, because Springfield—like much of our country—is home to people with very different views on politics, faith, culture, and the future. We don’t have to agree on everything, but we do have to live alongside each other.
So how can we live out this pledge right here in Springfield?
1. Practice Respectful Conversations
Whether it’s talking with neighbors in the grocery store, coworkers at lunch, or family around the table, I want to replace “winning arguments” with listening. Respectful conversations open doors that debates slam shut.
2. Support Local Solutions
Springfield faces real challenges—affordable housing, mental health care, food insecurity, and public safety among them. These issues don’t have “conservative” or “liberal” labels; they have human faces. By volunteering at places like Ozarks Food Harvest or The Kitchen, Inc., I can connect with others who may not share my politics but who share my care for the community.
3. Show Up Across Divides
Springfield is blessed with diverse faith communities, civic groups, and service organizations. Attending interfaith events, community forums, or neighborhood meetings means I get to hear voices beyond my usual circle. That’s how bridges are built—by showing up where divides exist.
4. Celebrate Shared Values
At the end of the day, most of us want the same things: safe neighborhoods, opportunities for our kids, fairness, and dignity for all. If I start my conversations with these shared values, we’ll find more common ground than we expect.
5. Model the Spirit of Fairness and Compassion
I can’t change Springfield overnight, but I can change how I show up in it. When I refuse to use insults, when I listen first, when I give people the benefit of the doubt, I am quietly shifting the atmosphere. That may sound small—but small acts of compassion ripple outward.
Springfield has long been called the “Queen City of the Ozarks.” I like to think that means we can also lead by example. What if Springfield became known as a place where people disagree without tearing each other down, where common good comes before political points, where neighbors build bridges instead of walls?
That’s the Springfield I want to be part of. And that’s why I take the pledge—not as a lofty ideal, but as a daily practice, right here where I live.
The Curious Pilgrims 