A Lesson I Wish I Had Learned Earlier in Life
By Michelle Allen
I wish I had learned earlier that trust is sacred—but not everyone holds it with the same reverence. For much of my life, I assumed that others shared my values: honesty, compassion, loyalty, and a desire to uplift those around them. I believed that if I showed up with integrity and kindness, others would do the same. And while that belief came from a place of hope and faith, it also left me vulnerable to disappointment.
Over time, I’ve come to understand that not everyone operates from the same moral compass. Some people may prioritize self-interest over community, or view vulnerability as weakness rather than strength. That realization was painful, but it taught me to be more discerning—not cynical, but wise. I’ve learned to listen more closely, to observe actions over words, and to protect my peace without closing my heart.
This lesson hasn’t made me less trusting—it’s made me more intentional. I still believe in the goodness of people, but I no longer assume it. I choose to build trust slowly, with care and clarity. And in doing so, I’ve found deeper, more authentic relationships—ones rooted not in naïve hope, but in mutual respect and shared values.
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