A favor is anything that is one does for another, solicited or not, that is not owed. Ordinarily, all that is required is thanks, although if there is a sufficient sense of indebtedness, due to the magnitude of the favor(s) bestowed, it is often proper to show gratitude with a more substantial gesture, such as a present, or at least to make it understood that one is available should the person have a need in return. Repayment would not be required in kind, since needs and wants are diverse, and, in any event, the original gesture would be cancelled were the repayment to be excessive.
I specifically mentioned rewarding "feats", by the way, which are different from favors. I meant praiseworthy actions, achievements "above and beyond the call of duty". Just as perfect justice would require some punishment for every transgression, it would require rewards for every meritorious action...... |
