building trust
"Consider that each day we are alive because of someone else's care and attention. Each time we cross the street, someone else is watching for us. Each time we make a left turn, someone else is careful to wait for us.
"A good exercise to do at night is to make a mental list of how many times that day your life depended on others, on their care and attention. As you picture each such situation, send a mental note of thank-you and appreciation to those concerned.
"After this, you can go on to situations where your life was not on the line, but other people's care and kindness made things more pleasant for you. You can send a note of appreciation to the grocery store clerks who keep the shelves stocked with fresh produce. To the city workers who keep your water running. To the power company workers who make sure that you have power.
"The whole universe is cooperating in keeping us alive and well.
"Babies and young children sleep easier in the presence of their parents. It is easier to let go and fall asleep in the arms of people who take care of you and in whom you have trust. We outgrow our need for parents, but we do not outgrow our need for trust."
