Circle of Trust

As I reminisce about the required readings of this week's lessons, I am reminded of the phrase "Circle of Trust". The words are simple enough, but the meaning behind it is so profound. According to Palmer, the circle of trust is not just about familiar and comfortable relationships between family, friends and loved ones. The circle of trust is truly about the relationship that a person builds or creates within every space of their lives. Rather that space be your personal life, your cultural interactions or your vocational life. "A circle of trust can form wherever two or three are gathered—as long as those two or three known how to create and protect a space for the soul" (Palmer, 2004). Palmer's analysis of how important trust is to the soul, is mirrored with the beliefs of Dr. West, Boers, Chittister, and Villasenor.

In Dr. West's book, Race Matters, Dr. West speaks about the damaged and strained relationships between the black race and current society. He contends that if humanity is willing to find a common place in their hearts for acceptance (admitting of pain), for forgiveness ( afflicter of pain) and for progression (healing); a circle of trust can begin to shape. “We have to recognize that there cannot be relationships unless there is commitment, unless there is loyalty, unless there is love, patience, persistence” (West, 1994). The idea of structuring a framework of mutual respect, compassion and acceptances of others personal differences; rather it be ethnicity, culture or ethics, can broaden and strengthen the circle of trust. Notwithstanding, in Dr. West's video Democracy Matters: Winning the Fight Against Imperialism, Dr. West continues to stress the value of nurturing the human spirit to be humble and democratic when interacting with all humanity. Dr. West goes on to say this is important because when all human beings are valued, we as a society will win. "The greatest intellectual, moral, political, and spiritual resources in...