Tuesday, May 27, 2003

The Trust Building

I have had so many requests for this article that I wrote a while back, that I thought I'd post it here as well.

The Trust Building

How long did it take you to build, and what did it take to build it?

Picture it as a structure, a building of sorts. What purpose does that structure serve? Can you consult others to help you build that structure exactly the way you want it? What materials will you use to build it? Wouldn't you make sure they were the best materials available? They would have to be very strong to survive any assault, and you would listen and learn as you built it, perhaps making some changes along the way. Because once it's built you want to make sure it will stand the test of life's experiences. I'm sure there are things you hadn't thought of that you'd want to add as you were in the process of building. And wouldn't you have safeguards in place in case that building was "under attack" even from the day to day challenges that threaten its structure? There's maintenance and repairs. You will want it to stand strong for a very long time. Others will envy you for this building and want one for themselves, so they'll watch you closely as you preserve it to the best of your ability.

However, have you every thought of how long it takes to destroy a building made of trust? It takes a brief moment in time. A destructive act, moment of chaos, dishonesty. No matter how long it took to create, it takes a second to demolish. It doesn't matter how carefully you erected it, a trust building isn't broken, it's shattered....and then it's gone. There are no pieces to pick up. First you have to completely clear away the rubble before you can rebuild otherwise the foundation won't be strong enough to support a new structure. Can you rebuild it? Sure you can!

Will others try to stop you or give you a hard time about it? Perhaps. Will they help you rebuild? Some will. Others, who might have gotten hurt when the building came down might be hesitant or even reluctant to pitch in. And you will have learned a lot in the process, allowing you to build something stronger and longer lasting. Can you rebuild overnight? No. It might take a long time, but it will happen. And once the structure turns out the way you want it, you'll protect it even more than the first one. People who watch you will be even more amazed than the first time and appreciate all the hard work you put into it. Many will remember the building that shattered, but you will know how strong the new one is. You will protect it with everything you have so it will last a long long time.

Food for thought to begin your day. Have a great one!
Donna

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