I’m currently reading the book, The Art of Happiness in a Troubled World, by His Holiness The Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler, MD.
In Chapter 12, The Dalai Lama says…
“Trust can contribute to one’s happiness on an individual level. A feeling of mistrust can lead to a suspicious, fearful attitude, and more mental unrest, whereas a more trusting attitude can contribute to a calmer, happier state of mind. On a wider level, trust can be a factor not only in building a stronger sense of community, and overcoming loneliness and alienation, but it can also be helpful in dealing with many of the problems of society.”
This passage really resonates with me because I can remember times in my past where I would question someone’s skills, character and intention. To spend so much mental energy focussed on prospective negative traits is draining. Why can the majority of human beings get onto a plane without fear that the pilot they have never met will not crash that plane? It’s simply trust. In caveman times, we could not trust as easily because life depended on it. But we have evolved as humans…have we not? I want to live in a world where I can trust that a complete stranger will not bring harm to me. In fact, by me trusting everyone, they could give me a better life! If every person thought the same way, the world could easily be a much better place.
Do you agree?