Gratitude Quote by Eleanor Roosevelt
““we have one weakness that, considering our political maturity as a nation, is rather immature. We continue to expect the world to be grateful to us and to love us. We are hurt and indignant when we do not receive gratitude and love. Gratitude and love are not to be had for the asking; they are not to be bought. We should not want to think that they are for sale. What we should seek, rather than gratitude or love, is the respect of the world. This we can earn by enlightened justice. But it is rather naïve of us to think that when we are helping people our action is entirely unselfish. It is not. It is not unselfish when we vaccinate the public against smallpox. It is a precautionary measure, but nonetheless good in itself. Other nations are quite aware that when we try to bolster up their economy and strengthen their governments and generally help them to succeed there is a certain amount of self-interest involved.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: United Nations General Assembly, 1946
Respect, not gratitude, is earned through just actions; altruism often includes self‑interest.
In simple terms: Earn respect through justice.
Key Takeaway
Act justly, accept realistic expectations.
Themes
justice
respect
self‑interest
politics
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- public health campaigns
- international aid
- national leadership
Key Concepts
ethics
global relations
Questions to Reflect On
- What actions truly earn respect?
- How do you balance self‑interest with altruism?
A Different Perspective
Respect can be fleeting if not continuously upheld.
