At first I was like, No way am I saying that, but when you…
““At first I was like, No way am I saying that, but when you hang out with people who are always being supergrateful and appreciating things and saying thank you, in the end it kind of rubs off, and one day after I'd flushed, I turned to the toilet and said, "Thanks, toilet," and it felt pretty natural. I mean, it's the kind of thing that's okay to do if you're in a temple on the side of a mountain, but you'd better not try it in your junior high school washroom, because if your classmates catch you bowing and thanking the toilet they'll try to drown you in it. I explained this to Jiko, and she agreed it wasn't such a good idea, but that it was okay just to feel grateful sometimes, even if you don't say anything. Feeling is the important part. You don't have to make a big deal about it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Gratitude can become habitual through surrounding yourself with thankful people, but overt displays may be socially awkward.
In simple terms: Being grateful feels natural when practiced, but public thanks can be misread.
Key Takeaway
Practice quiet gratitude daily.
Themes
gratitude
social norms
mindfulness
Mood
reflective
lighthearted
Type
personal
humorous
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- daily journaling
- mindful breathing
Key Concepts
habit formation
social perception
cultural context
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you express thanks without drawing unwanted attention?
- What subtle ways can you cultivate gratitude?
A Different Perspective
Public gratitude may be perceived as insincere or mocking.