Mistrust between brethren

I used to be very distrustful when others offered me something without asking for anything in return. I always believed that they were ripping me off, that a request for compensation would come in exchange for what they had given me or even that they would throw it in my face later. I felt like I was in a state of constant helplessness, and couldn't face my own insecurities. My brethren were genuine when they offered me advice or help in a given situation, but I always had a bad feeling about it. Some time later, I understood that many of my loved ones just wanted to do something good for me and that their intentions were supportive.


Sometimes, the societies we grow up in teach us to be aware of each other, to hide things from them because the other person may become jealous or envious, to keep the good news out of fear of being judged. Our suspicion may lead us to focus too much on ourselves, or to isolate ourselves from others. When we truly have to be honest and open with what is happening to us, we often decide to shut up about it and keep it inside us because we don't dare share it with others. The Lord is in charge of giving us the confidence we need in order to truly believe in the goodness of our neighbors, and in their wisdom and respect, so that we may also do the same.