Trust

Trust is the foundation for all relationships. It is what forms the bond between individuals, groups, companies, creatures, and even physics. If there is a break-down anywhere in the this foundation/formula you have a failure that leads to other symptoms. You will possibly have shock, disgust, disarray, confusion, resentment, anger, and sometimes retaliation, which leads to a failure in the wonderful foundation you have built.

The worst thing coming out of this breakdown is the perception people have of you now that this trust has been breached. The level of confidence in you is forever scarred and sometimes never recovered no matter how much you have done to reconcile the damage already done.

Great successes have been destroyed by the introduction of mistrust in a relationship. Some have been repaired, but suffered the forever damage that had already been done. Some seem to have recovered fully from this breakdown on the surface, but only those involved know fully if it is ever forgotten. I don't think so for their own sake. How could they? Otherwise they could suffer a repeat of that history from their own lack of diligence. That is one of the consequences of being distrustful. It is an invisible tattoo that cannot be undone.

Is there a chance to make amends? Yes, a chance in most cases. Do not count on it, though. Even with amends there is still that "one time" or "other times" stashed away in that file in peoples minds. If you have been the one who has introduced this mistrust into a relationship, you must admit it, apologize, and never have this happen again in any instance. Once trust is damaged the work to get it back has to be genuine and diligent. Trust is a badge you must build and wear proudly.

So if there is one thing you must build and hold dearly, it is the foundation of trust. All that surrounds you will excel and prosper.