Long Quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
“We seldom find people ungrateful so long as it is thought we can serve them.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Maximes, 1665
People appear grateful when they think we can help them, revealing self‑interest behind gratitude.
In simple terms: Gratitude often masks desire for assistance.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden motives in praise.
Themes
gratitude
self‑interest
human behavior
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
observational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- workplace interactions
- charitable giving
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you give thanks for help or for the helper?
- How does perceived usefulness shape relationships?
A Different Perspective
Gratitude can be genuine; not always self‑serving.
![“[The Dalai Lama] told me some years ago, "I've made every concession to China, and I've been as open and tolerant as I could, and still things get worse in Tibet." If you look at it from one point of view, as he himself says, his monastic position of forbearance and nonviolence hasn't reaped any…” quote by Pico Iyer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9fe/pico-iyer-1252_benefits_the-dalai-lama-told-me-some-years-ago-i_678.jpg)
