It's always best not to burn bridges

"Blessed are the peacemakers."

- Matthew 5:9 (NIV).

"Don't burn your bridges" was a favorite saying my parents would often use to remind me not to anger someone, or overlook an opportunity to the point that I would not be welcome to return.

I heard this saying originated in the military when bridges were burned during battles, leaving no possible way for the soldiers to retreat back from where they came.

I recently found myself giving the same advice to one of my adult children while discussing some of their problems.

We've all had an opportunity to burn a bridge or two in our lives. When we get disgruntled or impatient with a boss or organization, we can tend to leave without notice. If we leave a job without regard to the employer, we may harm our reputation when we need a good reference in the future.

I remember a time I left a job, on good terms, to risk obtaining a better employment opportunity, or so I thought. Four months into my new job, I could hardly stand another day. The expectations were unrealistic and they didn't live up to their promises. I clearly felt I made a huge mistake.

I spoke with my old boss and found out my replacement didn't work out and I was welcomed back. I'm not suggesting this always works out, but burning my bridges would not have allowed me to return to my old job, which was a better fit for me than I thought.

To avoid burning a bridge, remember not to act unpleasant when leaving - even if it's a disagreeable situation - if at all possible.

Bible verses encourage us regarding this. When Nehemiah needed a leave of absence to return to his home land, his boss consented due to his respectful attitude toward his job over the years.

This lesson applies to other situations as well. When making a move forward, keep in mind not to burn bridges.

• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker life coach and nurse. She can be contacted at annetteebudzban@aol.com or (847) 543-8413.