Be grateful Quote by Swami Vivekananda
“It is entirely wrong to think that we have done, or can do, good to the world, or to think that we have helped such and such people. It is a foolish thought, and all foolish thoughts bring misery. We think that we have helped some man and expect him to thank us, and because he does not, unhappiness comes to us. Why should we expect anything in return for what we do? Be grateful to the man you help, think of him as God. Is it not a great privilege to be allowed to worship God by helping our fellow men?”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address to the Parliament of Religions, Chicago, 1893
The quote warns against seeking personal gratification from altruism, urging selfless service and seeing others as divine, which leads to true fulfillment.
In simple terms: Help others without expecting thanks; see them as divine.
Key Takeaway
Serve selflessly, see service as worship.
Themes
selflessness
service
spirituality
Mood
humble
reflective
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- charity work
- community support
- personal growth
Key Concepts
karma
ego
gratitude
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you help for praise or love?
- How can seeing others as divine change your actions?
A Different Perspective
Expecting gratitude can breed disappointment and ego.
