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When someone gives the hospital a gift of $5 and you know…

“When someone gives the hospital a gift of $5 and you know he can afford less than that, thank him profusely. When someone gives the hospital a gift of $5,000 and you know he could afford five times that, say "that will help."” quote by Thomas Watson, Jr
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“When someone gives the hospital a gift of $5 and you know he can afford less than that, thank him profusely. When someone gives the hospital a gift of $5,000 and you know he could afford five times that, say "that will help."”

Thomas Watson, Jr

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Express gratitude proportionally to the giver’s ability, avoiding excessive praise for large gifts that may be modest for them.

In simple terms: Thank modestly when the donor is modest; be restrained with wealthy donors.

Key Takeaway

Match gratitude to donor's capacity.

Themes

gratitude social etiquette philanthropy

Mood

respectful thoughtful

Type

ethical practical

When to use this quote

  • hospital fundraising
  • personal donations
  • charitable events
  • corporate giving

Key Concepts

economic sensitivity humility social perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you gauge appropriate gratitude?
  • What impact does modest praise have on donor relationships?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on gratitude can feel insincere or manipulative.

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