The debt immense of endless gratitude, So burthensome, still paying, still to owe; Forgetful what from him I still receivd, And understood not that a grateful mind By owing owes not, but still pays, at once Indebted and dischargd; what burden then?
Interpretation
Gratitude is a continual state of owing and acknowledging the kindnesses we receive from others.
This quote from John Milton explores the concept of gratitude as an ongoing debt that individuals feel towards those who have contributed positively to their lives. It suggests that a truly grateful mindset recognizes the perpetual nature of this debt, leading to a state where one simultaneously feels indebted and liberated from the burden, highlighting the complexity of gratitude as a motivating force in human relationships.
In practice
In a speech about the importance of kindness, one might quote Milton to emphasize the obligation we have to acknowledge others' contributions.
They, looking back, all the eastern side beheld Of Paradise, so late their happy seat, Waved over by that flaming brand, the gate With dreadful faces thronged and fiery arms: Some natural tears they dropped, but wiped them soon; The world was all before them, where to choose Their place of rest, and Providence their guide; They, hand in hand, with wandering steps and slow, Through Eden took their solitary way.
The stars, that nature hung in heaven, and filled their lamps with everlasting oil, give due light to the misled and lonely traveller.
Ev'n them who kept thy truth so pure of old, When all our fathers worshipp'd stocks and stones.
Abashed the devil stood and felt how awful goodness is and saw Virtue in her shape how lovely: and pined his loss
The end of all learning is to know God, and out of that knowledge to love and imitate Him.
Apt words have power to suage the tumors of a troubled mind.
My brothers and sisters, do we remember to give thanks for the blessings we receive? Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, but it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel God's love.
I acknowledge my feeling and gratitude for life by praising the world and whoever made all these things.
When thanksgiving is filled with true meaning and is not just the formality of a polite 'thank you,' it is the recognition of dependence.
Thanks are justly due for boons unbought
We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.
I want to thank God, obviously for the health, for the talent He's given me, for my family who supports me, for the things that basketball's taught me on and off the court. For the people that I've been able to meet through the game of basketball.
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