What is Fundamental Trust?
Fundamental trust is not something we learn or decide to have; it’s an innate feeling, a deep, wordless knowing that life is fundamentally good. It’s that natural sense of security that makes us feel that even when we don’t understand or can’t control things, they will turn out alright. We aren’t talking about trust in people or situations, which can fail when something goes wrong, but a trust that arises from our deep connection to reality itself.
It’s as if there is a quiet intelligence within us that knows the universe is on our side. It’s not a mental belief but a quality of the soul—so natural that we don’t even notice it until it’s gone.
The Qualities It Provides When Present
When we are in touch with this trust, we live with more ease. We become capable of relaxing into experiences, even difficult ones. We feel braver, more authentic, open to risk, and able to follow what feels right for us without being blocked by the fear of making a mistake.
Fundamental trust makes deep qualities available to us, such as presence, inner peace, love, a sense of security, and a joyful freedom to simply be. It’s as if something inside us knows we can just exist, and that’s okay.
In the body, fundamental trust manifests as a sense of relaxation, groundedness, and openness. It feels like we can “lean into” life. The belly is often the place where we feel this quality: a warm, soft, stable sensation.
In the psyche, we feel less agitated and worried. We stop trying to control everything and can be in the present without constantly thinking about the future or the past. When fundamental trust is active, the mind calms, the heart opens, and anxiety dissolves.
When Fundamental Trust is alive within us:
We are more present and less reactive.
We accept what is, without wanting to change it.
We have a more authentic relationship with ourselves and with others.
We don’t feel the need to manipulate or force things out of fear that they won’t go our way.
We trust in the flow of events, even when they are uncertain.
Essentially, we live with more love, compassion, joy, and gratitude.
The Support for Personal Evolution
From the perspective of inner evolution, fundamental trust is an essential ingredient. When it’s present, we can let go of old habits, identities, and mental structures that limit us. We can face change with openness, allowing ourselves to be transformed.
Fundamental trust allows us to experience the deep processes of inner awakening and growth without interference. It’s as if the soul can “sit back” and simply be, knowing that something good will emerge.
When Fundamental Trust is Missing
When fundamental trust is absent, the world seems like a dangerous place. We feel alone, insecure, full of doubt and worry. The ego takes control, trying to manage everything, driven by fear.
We live in a state of defense, control, and anxiety. We tend to repeat behavioral patterns conditioned by the past because we can’t be with what is happening in the present moment. Our energy becomes blocked, and life loses its freshness and creativity.
The Role of Fundamental Trust in Inquiry
Inquiry (or self-inquiry) is a central technique in the inner work of the Diamond Logos Teachings. It’s an open and sincere exploration of what we experience in the body, mind, and soul.
Fundamental trust is the ground on which inquiry can flourish. Only if we trust the process can we truly open up and allow ourselves to be guided. This trust helps us avoid rushing to find answers, allowing us instead to stay with the question, with the experience of the moment, knowing that something true will emerge from it.
With this trust, we learn to let go and welcome even what we don’t understand or what frightens us. Inquiry then becomes a spontaneous journey, supported by an inner force that knows everything that emerges has its own meaning and beauty.