“So loyalty is a function of deep gratitude, and gratitude is a function of grace. Parents are to inculcate this sense of gratitude and thanksgiving by extending grace to their children. In this, the manner and attitude of the gift is crucial. Grace must be extended graciously. It’s more important for parents to nurture an atmosphere in which they constantly give to their children, and in which they do so freely. But it’s important to distinguish “giving freely” and “giving a lot.” The widow that Jesus observed putting her small pennies into the offering was giving freely, but she was not giving a lot. Parents give freely in their attitude–and if they are churlish or resentful or overbearing, gratitude doesn’t grow.
“Parents are responsible to see that their children grow up as thankful human beings, but this is not necessarily the same thing as growing up as indebted human beings. Gratitude liberates, while debts of every kind weigh us down.” (My Life for Yours, p. 108)
You Think Too Much! 