Grateful Vs Thanklessness 😕🙁

Introduction

Thanklessness means not appreciating what others do for you, taking their efforts for granted. It can make people feel unappreciated and upset.

Gratitude, on the other hand, strengthens relationships, spreads positivity, and encourages more kindness.
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Help Tania at School

In school, Tania often forgot to say “thank you” to her classmates and teachers. Whether someone helped her with homework or held the door for her, she never showed appreciation. One day, her best friend Rhea helped her prepare for a big test. After the test, Tania didn’t thank Rhea, and Rhea felt hurt. When Tania asked Rhea for help again, she refused, saying, “You never appreciate what I do for you.”

Tania was surprised but realized her mistake. She apologized and thanked Rhea for all her help.

From that day, she made sure to always express gratitude to her friends and teachers, which made them feel valued and strengthened their friendships.

Help Raj at Home

At home, Raj’s parents often did things for him—cooking his meals, helping with homework, and cleaning his room. But Raj never showed any appreciation.

One evening, after a long day, his mother told him,

“We do all this because we care about you, but it would mean a lot to hear a simple ‘thank you’ once in a while. It shows you notice and value the effort.”

Raj understood and began saying “thank you” more often. He noticed how much happier and closer his family felt when he expressed gratitude.

Reference from Panchatantra Stories

In the Panchatantra, there’s a story about a grateful mouse who was saved by a bird. The mouse, feeling thankful, later returned the favor by saving the bird from a trap. The story teaches that gratitude strengthens bonds and leads to mutual help, while thanklessness leaves people isolated.

Thirukural Couplets

“Gratitude is the mark of noble souls; thanklessness is the sign of the shallow-hearted.”
— Thirukural 110

Say “Thank You”: Always express gratitude when someone helps or does something for you, no matter how small.
Show Appreciation Through Actions: Don’t just say it—do small things to show you’re grateful, like returning a favor or being kind.
Notice the Efforts of Others: Pay attention to what people do for you, and don’t take their kindness for granted.