The Many Faces of Everyday Ingratitude
In everyday communication, ingratitude can manifest in several specific behaviors. One such behavior is the refusal to express gratitude for a benefit received or help offered. As noted in one source, “Having received a benevolent act, if one cannot reciprocate by other means, then at least repay with words of thanks—a trait characteristic either of the utterly reckless, of those insensitive to benevolence, or of the forgetful” (source: link txt). In other words, when a person fails to try to reciprocate good, even by offering a simple word of thanks, such behavior can be considered ungrateful.Another manifestation of ingratitude is linked to a passive attitude toward one’s circumstances and a lack of initiative in solving everyday problems. For example, as vividly described in one instance, some people visit a communal place (such as a temple) and complain about minor issues—saying, “it’s a bit chilly here”—instead of taking measures to improve the situation themselves (source: link txt). Such behavior demonstrates an unwillingness to take responsibility for one’s own well-being and devalues the opportunities provided, which also constitutes ingratitude.Thus, ingratitude in everyday communication can be seen as:1. A refusal to reciprocate for good deeds, even in the form of a simple word of thanks.2. Expressing complaints and criticism about universally provided conditions without any effort to improve them or actively participate in their change.Supporting citation(s):“For, having received a benevolent act, if one cannot reciprocate by other means, then at least repay with words of thanks…” (source: link txt)“Some come to a temple and say, ‘it’s a bit chilly here.’ … Therefore, we must train ourselves to thank God every day for the fact that we are still alive…” (source: link txt)