One of the loftiest character traits which an individual can possess is that of hakoras hatov (expression of gratitude). This gratitude has been misconstrued to mean merely a repayment of someone else’s benevolent deed. There are many aspects to this attribute. One is that hakoras hatov is an obligation by which an individual is duty bound not only to acknowledge the immediate source of benefit, but he is even responsible to discern that which brought about the action of his benefactors, and to express his appreciation to them for their role in his gain. Rabbi Chaim Shmuelevitz Zt”l notes from…
