Yesterday, I came across this Arabic proverb:
افعل الخير وارميه في البحر
‘Do good, and then throw it into the sea’

In other words, don’t expect anything in exchange for your good actions.

Work with excellence in all affairs, despite the lack of recognition.
Humble yourself when dealing with your brothers and sisters in humanity.
Smile at the people around you, although they may give you nothing but affliction.
Remain fair, even when subjected to injustice.
Stand peaceful in the face of hatred.

Do good, then throw it into the sea that is incapable of returning it to you.
The sea that, in its vastness, will cause it to be forgotten.

Do good, seek good, and spread good.
Not for yourself, but because the world is in need of your kindness.

By Sarah Abdelrahman