That ugly ingratitude

In his search for ‘truths’ to live by —that is, discernment of what is right and fruitful for oneself — the aspiring seeker would realise that issues concerning relationships are of immense importance.

Various ingredients go into this subject and also in guarding against being ‘led down the garden path’. One that merits attention is that of ingratitude, often encountered even after sincere and substantial favours are doled.

Contemptuous disregard through pretensions to condescension to the extent of putting on airs, as if to suggest that things would have gone as well, if not even better, even without receiving these benefits, manoeuvring to be stoically silent, lest a good word may escape inadvertently and, in some cases, going to the extent of also wishing harm to the giver — these are some of the manifestations of ingratitude.

Shakespeare labelled this venom as “the most unkindest cut of all” and as “sharper than a serpent’s tooth”, while the Tamil saint Valluvar declares that of all sins, ingratitude is the worst.

While in Natal, South Africa, Gandhi thanked a waiter for his excellent manner of serving food. The server replied, “I shall never forget you, sir, because in 25 years of my service as a waiter, I have not heard asingle word of thanks.”

Indeed, gratitude, as “tears of a repentant sinner”, is not only precious but very rare! Understanding related issues on the subject would be necessary to chart one’s approach, that would “win friends and influence people” and also obtain other benefits immeasurable!