I have been practising meditation for more than eight years. Over time, it has changed the way I look at quite a few things, including how I deal with people.
As a Buddhist, I believe in karma. I believe our actions matter, and that what we put into the world eventually finds its way back to us, in one form or another. That does not mean doing good in the expectation of receiving something in return.
I have never been particularly concerned about how people see me. Some will appreciate what you do, some will never, and some may even misunderstand your intentions. That is fine. We cannot spend our lives trying to manage other people’s opinions.
I would rather do what I believe is right, help where I can and treat people fairly, regardless of whether anyone notices. There will be times when people disappoint you, or when your goodwill is not returned. It happens. That should not be a reason to change your own principles.
I suppose this is one of the things meditation has reinforced in me. Be at peace with yourself, do good whenever you can, and do not keep score.
Life is too short to spend it worrying about what others think.