The word "gratitude" shares its root with the word for "thanks" in Spanish and Italian (gracias, grazie) and with "grace" in English. In what ways are the graceful dancer and the person who gives thanks, the same? They both know the value of the gifts they have received. To know what you have is to appreciate it, and to appreciate is to enjoy and ( Read more... )

Most salient points of the TED talk by Alice Dreger: Is anatomy destiny?

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To rationalize our self-absorption and selfishness, we engage in charity/volunteering. So what we are left with is one step up, two steps back for society. Charity merely signifies an excuse for injustice and demonstrates the failure of a society as a whole.