[lbo-talk] QoTD

[Kelley]

"We wish to be self-sustained. We do not quite forgive a giver. The hand 
that feeds us is in some danger of being bitten. ... We are either glad or 
sorry at a gift, and both emotions are unbecoming. Some violence I think is 
done, some degradation borne, when I rejoice or grieve at a gift. I am 
sorry when my independence is invaded...and if the gift pleases me 
overmuch, then I should be ashamed that the donor should read my heart. ... 
For the expectation of gratitude is mean, and is continually punished by 
the obliged person. It is a great happiness to get off without injury and 
heart-burning from one who has had the ill-luck to be served by you. It is 
a very onerous business, this of being served, and the debtor naturally 
wishes to give you a slap."

Ralph Waldo Emerson, "How dare you give them?"