The Importance of Trust

Explores how trust is built and tested among the characters, and how it is essential for healing and friendship.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Mary Learns to Trust the Robin

Mary Learns to Trust the Robin A Cautious Approach Mary is initially surprised that the robin comes close. She learns to move slowly and speak softly. The robin's trust teaches her gentleness. The Robin's Trust When the robin allows Mary to approach, she feels honored. This small trust is a breakthrough. She begins to trust herself. A Foundation for Friendship Trusting the robin opens Mary to trusting people. It is the first step in her emotional growth.

Mary Trusts Dickon

Mary Trusts Dickon A Leap of Faith Mary decides to trust Dickon with the secret garden. She barely knows him, but his connection to nature convinces her. Dickon's Response Dickon accepts the secret without question. He proves trustworthy by keeping it. Trust is reciprocated. The Bond Solidified This mutual trust forms the basis of their friendship. Mary now has someone she can rely on.

Colin Trusts Mary

Colin Trusts Mary A Stranger in the Night Colin is frightened but trusts Mary enough to talk. He lets her touch his hand. This initial trust is fragile but real. Sharing His Fears Colin tells Mary about his fear of death and his mother. He has never told anyone. Trust allows him to be vulnerable. The Foundation of Recovery Mary's trustworthiness gives Colin hope. He begins to believe that change is possible. Trust is the first medicine.

Trusting Dickon with Colin

Trusting Dickon with Colin A Delicate Introduction Mary trusts Dickon to meet Colin. She knows Dickon will not hurt him. Colin is nervous but trusts Mary's judgment. Dickon's Gentle Nature Dickon's calm presence puts Colin at ease. He brings his animals, which further builds trust. Colin feels safe. A Three-Way Trust The three children now trust each other. This triangle of trust supports their activities in the garden. It is the social fabric of their secret world.

Trusting Susan Sowerby

Trusting Susan Sowerby A Mother's Trustworthiness Dickon trusts his mother completely. Mary and Colin quickly trust her too. Her warmth invites trust. The Letter Susan uses her trust to write to Mr. Craven. She believes he will respond. Her trust in human goodness is rewarded. The Circle of Trust By the end, trust has expanded to include Ben Weatherstaff and Mr. Craven. The secret garden is built on trust. Without it, nothing would have grown.

early in the story

when she shows him the garden

during their first meeting

when Colin agrees to meet Dickon

near the end