The believers in Surah Al-Insan fed the needy and asked for nothing back, not even thanks. That is a rare and beautiful standard.
Most of us like our good deeds to be noticed. A little thanks feels nice, and there is nothing wrong with that. But Surah Al-Insan describes a higher level:
إِنَّمَا نُطْعِمُكُمْ لِوَجْهِ ٱللَّهِ لَا نُرِيدُ مِنكُمْ جَزَآءً وَلَا شُكُورًا
"We feed you only for the sake of Allah. We want from you neither reward nor thanks." (Surah Al-Insan 76:9)
Free From the Need to Be Thanked
When we do good only to please Allah (SWT), no one's forgetfulness can hurt us. If they thank us, Alhamdulillah. If they never remember, our reward has not gone anywhere.
It is reported that when A'ishah (RA) sent a gift, she told the messenger to listen to the du'a the family made for her, so she could make the same du'a for them and keep her reward with Allah alone.
It is an adab we try to build in DSQA students: help a classmate, tidy up, share your lunch, and do not announce it.
Take Home
This week, do one quiet act of kindness and tell no one about it, not even your family.