Poetic Reflections: trust

There are lighter topics I could choose, yet I find myself able only to speak from the heart. A heart that beats too loud, too strong, too fast at times. Or thuds faintly, wounded and gasping. A heart that is too often betrayed in this world, that bleeds too easily.

There are persons in our midst who take pleasure from the pain they inflict; who brutally seek targets to redirect the ugliness and torment lurking in themselves. I’ve befriended such people. And am always shocked when their knife blades plunge, stabbing from behind, slashing my regard to ribbons. Only to be told I asked for it, and not to give them the pleasure. But how else can I respond, except with tears of sorrow and disappointment?

Tragically, how else can I know who I am to trust?

It is a vital element. It is the platform of Faith. It is the backbone of any union. It is what holds us up when we are afraid to fall. Or lifts us when we hit the bottom. Trust should not be unbalanced. It should never be a tug-of-war. Violate confidence too often, break honor into pieces, and you’re on your own. As much as we care for others, everyone has to look out for their individual protection. We owe ourselves that.

Be aware. Do not, like me, stick your head in the lion’s mouth. Do not expect a leopard to change its spots. Do not walk into a closed door. Choose those you believe in wisely. And hope they will treat you as considerately as you treat them. That is Trust — the bridge between two hearts.