I struggle with the same feelings. It is an extremely real fear, especially when I start establishing a relationship (of any kind) with someone new. I would suggest trusting your gut instinct. I've been trying to adopt the mindset "Every relationship has something you can learn from it; good, bad, or otherwise." Maybe we just have a lot of learning to do.

I know how you feel. I have been there a lot. I try my hardest to not let the people that hurt me get to me. I know that there are good people out there and I keep living my life, learning from those who hurt me and I keep moving on. I know that all things work out in God's time. Please remember that there is a lot of people out there that are true to their word and will stand by you. Don't let the ones that hurt you destroy your trust in the world, because there are so many good people out there.

If you find the answer, let me know. I just keep people at a distance. It's easier. Hugs

Knight has a wonderful idea. Each relationship is something we can learn from. Trust, respect....something you get when you learn to give.
Just my opinion.

I think that a big tool to use is this: make others earn your trust, and accept that you must earn theirs at the same time. Keep both of those in balance.

It is dangerous to give our trust before others have earned it, before they come to respect our trust. When we give it out too soon, it is easy for others to abuse it. Because they do not respect it.

I am going through the same trust issues because of what recently happened in my life too. It is not easy and believe me when i say that, it has changed me. People are not same at all. All they want is to use you. What i have learned so far is just believe in yourself. If you won't fall you will not learn how to rise up. I am taking each day slowly. Just trust yourself and you will make a better judgement when it comes to getting someone close in your inner circle.

I handle it with knowing that because everyone is human, they are going to eventually disappoint. The truth is, all of us, including you and me will disappoint someone at some point...because none of us are perfect. I think part of it is our expectations...and expectations are resentments under construction. It's unfortunate that you and I have been hurt in the past, and most likely, we'll be hurt again, but don't shut out everyone because then you miss the good. We have to learn to accept that sometimes we'll be disappointed, but it's those times when the important people in our lives ARE there, and bless us in some way that are worth opening up. Don't miss out on the blessings. I know that's easier said than done...trusting is hard. I've been working on it myself in the last few years, and I'm finding that while some do sometimes disappoint, I just give the same grace that I would want for when I disappoint. Allowing myself to be a little vulnerable and trusting those who deserve to be trusted (not because they're perfect, but just because they truly are friends), I have been blessed. It's all about baby steps and lowering expectations that we are never going to be disappointed. I hope this makes sense.

It is very hard to trust people. Trust must be earned. Some are trustworthy. Most are not. But there's a big difference between making mistakes and lying and deceiving.

Sorry, it is hard when you are hurt and carry wounds from feeling like someone has compromised your trust. It takes time to recover. Many have said wise things in their posts. We are all human and we receive hurt and we hurt, often without even knowing! Do not give up! There are so many wonderful and special people that will bless us on life's journey, and yes, they may be in between those who hurt but we do learn from the negative as well. I read words of wisdom that might help: "If I could know all about another's situation, if I truly understood their background and they way they've been treated in the past, if I knew every detail that goes into their behavior, then I'll understand why they act as they do, and I'll forgive all. Would it make their actions right in my eyes? Not necessarily, but I could understand their way of thinking and forgiveness would be much easier." This helped put things in perspective for me and I hope it helps you as well. We all desire to love and be loved and there is a lot of steps back in between. Stay strong and do not lose hope!