A Bridge Called Democracy

Life on the mission field is always a little crazy; there really is no "normal day" here, it seems. This summer has been especially eventful, with a giant earthquake and an ousted president. I especially enjoyed an article written by our partner Matt, linking the two events.


A Bridge Called “Democracy”
By Matt Goins, missionary in Honduras



The dividing line between the departments of Cortés and Yoro in Honduras is the Ulua River, one of the largest rivers in the country. In order to pass from one department to the other, one must cross the Ulua River over El Puente La Democracia, the Democracy Bridge. The eastbound lane of the Democracy Bridge was destroyed by Hurricane Mitch in 1998 and reconstructed with the help of Japan. The Democracy Bridge is vital to the infrastructure of Honduras, providing access to the entire north coast.

On May 28, 2009, an earthquake that registered 7.1 on the Richter scale shook the country of Honduras. The other half of the old bridge traversing the Ulua collapsed; but the Democracy Bridge, though damaged, stands firm, keeping the lifeline to the northern coast of Honduras open. Though the swirling currents of the murky Ulua push against it below, the Democracy Bridge still offers free passage to all points north.

The Democracy Bridge offers us a portrait of the state of Honduran Democracy today. This Democracy has been damaged by the events of Sunday, June 28; but contrary to popular opinion, Democracy still stands, fighting against the current of world opinion that swirls around it. As Rep. Connie Mack of Florida stated, "There is little doubt that Zelaya, in his blatant power grab, has moved Honduras down a dangerous path toward less freedom, less security, and less prosperity. ... The United States and our allies in the region must now stand with the Honduran people to ensure the respect of freedom, the rule of law and democracy.” If left unsupported and unrepaired, the Democracy will fall, leaving behind a disaster area that will isolate an entire region, a blow from which this needy nation may never recover. Just ask Cuba.


1 Response
  1. pablo Says:

    Dear Christine
    I was told that the river there changed course and left the new bridge a "bridge to nowhere" is that true?
    I wish you God's best there -- I was in Honduras a dozen times during the 80's and it has a big place in my heart.
    pablo

    pabloflotho@gmail.com


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