SCOTT DEPOT, WV (ANS) -- Confidence, once shattered, may never be fully restored. Self-confidence and confidence in others, two essentials for successful and productive living, can never be over estimated in terms of importance and basic value.

The very idea of confidence conjures up thoughts of belief, self-assurance, reliance, sureness, faith, trust and mental toughness. The person who has lost faith and confidence in himself may be tempted to give up. Never sell yourself short. Remember what many public speakers and writers have said and what many of us have experienced: “What the mind can conceive and the heart believe the hands can achieve.”

Confidence is an assuring gift whether it be in ourselves or in others. Confidence enables us to do the unexpected and even the impossible. To believe in and trust others is to give them opportunities to serve and work at our expense. Robert South a highly regarded leader and poet of England, 1634-1716, wrote: “Society is built upon trust, and trust upon confidence in one another’s integrity.”

As long as confidence remains, there is hope. Once there was a television show called, “Who Do You Trust?” That is a perennial question and the older we become it looms even larger. That question is on the front of our minds now, perhaps more so than at any time in recent memory.

To lose confidence is a haunting and hurting negative that robs life of its blessings and happiness. It brings fear and distrust.

John Casper, a Swiss theologian of nearly two centuries ago, said, “Trust him little who praises all; him less who censures all; and him least who is indifferent to all.” Was he describing our current political leaders? William Shakespeare, perhaps the most quoted poet and dramatist ever, warned: “Trust not him that hath once broken faith.”

When confidence is lost in politicians, clergymen, counselors, friends, doctors and others, it may never be restored. To lose confidence in one’s self can be even more devastating. It leaves a dark and empty place in our hearts and minds when it happens.

At present, the United States Congress may have the lowest rating for confidence and trust in its long history. It is not much higher in other branches and departments of government. We often hear statements and questions like these: “We elect them to office and they seem to forget us until their term is nearing an end and they come back with a new set of promises which they have no intention of keeping.” “Why does the Congress forget those who placed them in office and pay their salaries?”

When our government, religious and business leaders do stupid and ridiculous things, they would do well to remember that there will be another election day. A day of reckoning and accountability. In another year, hundreds now in office will be voted on by millions of Americans who will not forget how they have conducted themselves.

No wonder our sixteenth president, Abraham Lincoln, is revered in the United States and around the world. He was a man of integrity and common sense, virtues not found in all political leaders of our day. This great man of godly wisdom and trust asked, “Why should there not be a patient confidence in the ultimate justice of the people? Is there any better or equal hope in the world?”

John, follower of Jesus, once encouraged believers to “ . . . have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming (1 John 2:28). It is a solid confidence in ourselves, others and God that keeps us steady in the most difficult times.

Job, of ancient days, could endure the worst that could happen because of his confidence and trust in God. Cling to your confidence in things eternal.

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Bill Ellis is a syndicated columnist, and convention and conference speaker on every continent. He is the writer of more than 1600 columns and widely known as a motivator utilizing enjoyment of life and just plain fun and laughter while speaking to high school, university and professional sports teams as well as to business and professional groups of all kinds. His keen understanding of human problems make him a favorite speaker for youth, parent, and senior adult meetings. He is accompanied by Kitty, his wife, favorite singer, editor and publisher. For information on becoming a subscriber to the Ellis Column for your newspaper or magazine, you may contact him at: BILL ELLIS, P.O.Box 345, Scott Depot, WV 25560 or by calling: 304-757-6089.