Trust in a World Full of Betrayal

We can only be betrayed by people we trust.  What’s sad is that we live in a world of rampant betrayals.  Do we simply stop trusting or continue to hope that people will change?  The reality is there are people whom we cannot trust.

Politics is one arena where trust is often leveraged in order to acquire whatever personal gains they may want.  Worse, betrayal has become a part of the political scene.  And in spite of the continuous betrayals of officials from all levels of the government people still fall prey to politicians.  These politicians have stolen not mere change but millions from the people.    The worst part is that they get away.   And to add insult to injures, they continue to “serve” in their post as “trusted” officials.  Moreover, in spite all the news about their indiscretions and abuse of power some get re-elected or appointed to high positions. 

Another avenue where trust is almost a part of daily life is n religion or spiritual guidance.  I abhor the fact that some priests have been implicated and accused of misusing this trust.  All over the world, there are news about this betrayal.  Of course the Catholic Church does not condone this and does not tolerate such behavior.  But, unfortunately, this exists.  Other church leaders and prominent individuals have their share of news and scandals.  In spite of their religious influence, they find a way to follow a misguided path of betrayal.

Family is supposed to be founded on love and trust.  But there are just relationships that defy the foundations of strong and healthy ties.  News about family raping and abusing their own blood is just detestable.  Moreover, relationships break apart because on or both fall prey to infidelity.  Family is supposed to be a safe place from the cruel world.  However, even the household is susceptible to betrayals.

This world is indeed full of people willing to take trust and pervert it for their own gain.  Is this a natural human tendency or is it reserved for the hell-bound?   I think everyone has the capacity to trust and betray.  But only those who can commit to preserving this trust can truly find joy in their lives.