It’s funny the kind of assumptions I find myself making in life sometimes. Not consciously, of course. Somehow I’ve found myself buying into subconscious little misconceptions of reality that have later led me to disappointment later in life.

At its core of many of misconceptions I think is, “If I’m a good boy, people are going to like me.” Ha ha ha! Now that’s a seriously messed up statement!

I’ve seen many volunteers make that wrong assumption and try to warn them about it when they arrive here in Costa Rica. For instance, one assumption volunteers make is thinking that just because they work hard to help others, everyone around them will shower them with love, appreciation and thanks.

Often, especially in Costa Rica, that is the case – but not always. And when faced with ungrateful people, it often comes as a shock and a surprise. And it hurts!

I fell into that same trap yesterday thanks to Amanda, otherwise known as “The Grinch” around our office now.

We sent out our end-of-year newsletter yesterday, which we were very excited about. We had an amazing year and wanted to share about all that we accomplished and what we were looking forward to for the next year with our friends, volunteers and supporters.

When we saw our first response come in we were very excited. We mistakenly thought it was going to be a “good for you, congratulations and keep up the great work” kind of response. But much to our surprise, we opened the email and found this:

“I have unsubscribed to your email list. As a professional fundraiser, I find your volunteer program to be totally repugnant. The idea of charging to volunteer and call it a vacation does not sit well with me. Are you a tour business or a non-profit? Figure it out because I really think it’s slimy.”

I find it really interesting that people think because we are a non-profit that all our employees should work for free. That our landlord donates the property to us, and the gas station puts gas free into our vehicles. What about the phone company? Should they let us make free phone calls too?

Anyhow, at the same time (after I calmed down for a minute), The Grinch’s email made me thankful for the many wonderful supporters we do have. Without them, we would not be able to provide the wonderful programs and services to our local children, families, communities and wildlife.

The truth is, not everyone is going to like us or appreciate us. That’s okay. We don’t do what we do to impress people. We do what we do because we believe in it. Sometimes it’s hard to remember that in the face of hatred and nastiness.

To all you Grinches out there: A very Happy Holiday Season to you. We hope you find Peace and Joy somewhere deep in your hearts. And that if you yourselves find you are in need someday, there will be someone to help you without judging you.