If it is free then you’re the product

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 21^st 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.