"It is another's fault if he be ungrateful, but it is mine if I do not give. To find one thankful man, I will oblige a great many that are not so"
- Seneca the Younger
About this Quote
This quote by Lucius Annaeus Seneca talks to the importance of providing, also when it is disliked. He recognizes that it is not his fault if a person is unappreciative for his kindness, but it is his mistake if he does not give. He is suggesting that it is worth it to offer to lots of people, even if only one is happy. This is a tip that we ought to not be dissuaded by ungratefulness, however rather focus on the favorable effect that our kindness can have. Seneca is urging us to be charitable and also to not let the absence of gratitude quit us from doing good. He is reminding us that even if we do not obtain many thanks, we can still make a difference in the lives of others.
"To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization"
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"
