If it
is free then you’re the product
By MUSYOKA NGUI
A
sense of gratitude is a most appreciable value that mortals relish in being
complimented. Being told thank you , not just as a formality but an involuntary
acknowledgement of a favor, sets of acts of kindness that are never forced but
meant.
It
is a form of recognition that one has positively impacted others’ lives; put a smile
on their faces and contributed to their happiness. In effect, making life
bearable for self and others lengthening it from mere existence to enjoyment
and cherishing every waking second. Coz let’s face it, life can at times be
hard but with people who spice it for others, it helps define the elusive and
proverbial meaning of life as we know it.
A
facade with the new and now of today is thinking that it takes expensive gestures
to make differences in others’ lives. Loved ones
obsessed with money, expensive gifts and misplaced senses of entitlement.
What
they do not know is that when one shares with you their time you get a piece of
their life that cannot be brought back. More valuable than material gain and
short term satisfaction.
In
the increasing consumerism of 21st century, let it not be lost on us
that while corporates pursue profits, humans should think if it is worth the
risk. Is the effort worth the gain? What shall you gain by breaking up a
hitherto fruitful relation just because your attitude and ego tells you that
you are underrated? Sounds insurable, commodification of people and psychological
freebies that do not tell you that if it is free then you are the product.
Saying
thank you is not supposed to be a ritual. Neither is it supposed to be a
reminder. It is an innate jerk that people credit others in humility. You are
self made? Self made? Did you create yourself?
Not
only giving gratitude but making a mental note that a good turn deserves
another. Return the favor. Like no one really is born the gift that keeps on
giving and never receives. Even a casino that never loses also from time to
time rewards loyal gamblers.
