Thank you very much for all the replies.. They all help to clarify my mind. Its not whethet people say thanks actually. Its whether I feel my contribution is appreciated.
I didnt feel that way when I was growing up and it led to very difficult relationships with my parents later. At the time I couldnt have said why.
I know Im not the only one & that many people were onlu criticised never praised.
Im fascinated by the advice to cut people off if they dont say thanks. Really? Like Margaret Thatcher once said "I want to have a few friends at the end"
Even if they arent perfect. Its myself I want to change. This whole thing is a lump in my chest that takes up energy and makes me afraid to trust people.
To think that London, or anywhere else for that matter, does not belong to any one demographic