"Trust cannot be commanded; and yet it is also correct that the only one who earns trust is the one who is prepared to grant trust"

This quote by Gustav Heinemann speaks with the importance of trust in relationships. Heinemann suggests that trust can not be required or commanded, but rather must be made. He indicates that trust is something that should be given in order to be gotten. In other words, if somebody wishes to be relied on, they must first want to trust others. This concept is specifically relevant in interpersonal relationships, where trust is important for a healthy and successful relationship. Heinemann's quote likewise speaks with the value of being open and vulnerable in order to develop trust. By being willing to trust others, we open ourselves up to the possibility of being injured, but likewise to the possibility of forming meaningful and long lasting relationships. Ultimately, Heinemann's quote advises us that trust is something that needs to be earned, which it is only through wanting to trust others that we can hope to be trusted in return.