Our relationships with others are like bridges that take us from one place to another; when we "burn our bridges" we destroy our relationships and it is difficult to go back. Example: "On his last day on the job he got in a huge fight with his boss." Answer: "Why would he want to go burning his bridges like that? Someday he might want to work there again." "Don't burn your bridges" means that it is important to remember and value the relationships that get you where you are and not damage those relationships. Example: "I wish you hadn't been rude to that man just now; he is very important in this town and you shouldn't go around burning bridges."