As we journey through life, there comes a time when we pause and reflect—wondering if we have true friends whose presence we can genuinely cherish. Sadly, experience often shows that those who benefited most from our kindness are the very ones who forget it first.
But we must never let our actions be guided by expectations of gratitude or return favours. True generosity has no hidden motives. Often, what appears as ingratitude may come from discomfort people feel—guilt or even quiet humiliation at having needed help. We must never remind others of past kindness. The noblest way to respond is with grace, simply saying, “It brought me joy to help.”
There is quiet fulfilment in acts of kindness, offered not as charity but as shared humanity. Whether others remember or not, you will carry the peace of knowing you acted from the heart. Goodness is not always material help. Sometimes, it is standing by a friend during trials, defending them against unfair criticism, sharing in their joys and sorrows, encouraging their strengths, and refusing to highlight their flaws. In this age of easy communication, keeping in touch—a message, a call, or a small gesture—keeps bonds alive. A birthday wish or a word of comfort nurtures friendships. Friendship need not be strictly reciprocal.
It is not the number of friends but the sincerity in meaningful relationships that counts. Even the Bible reminds us of gratitude, as seen in the story of the ten lepers. When we serve with no expectations, what remains is pure joy. Life becomes richer when we realise every person we meet can be a friend. Do good—not for praise, but simply because it is good.
