We often tend to take things for granted in our lives, which becomes a reason for our misery. Gratitude bestows immense happiness, both to the giver and the receiver when offered with purity of heart. A simple 'Thank You' can transform a situation or relationship diametrically. Service of mankind, when done with selflessness, is a natural outcome of gratitude.
Gratitude should also not be with an expectation of the greeting or gesture to be returned. Even if we offer a glass of water to someone with gratitude and selflessness, seeing the essence of Nirankar in them, it becomes a reason for bliss and joy. Gifting, sharing and caring are extremely sublime and delightful acts. This kind of offering becomes sewa, selfless service.
The sun, rivers, trees, earth and air, all have been continuously providing us with their resources, without any expectation. But we humans become selfish and enforce conditions while giving away even a little bit of what we have and expect much more in return. This is the reason for our sorrow. This does not necessarily mean that we should not desire to grow in life.
It only means that after having performed a specific action, we should leave its outcome to the divine verdict, stay content and be thankful for what we are receiving. It means that growth is mutual and universal. We can't expect to save our home if our neighbour's house is on fire.