Sometimes people just don't take the time to thank someone for helping them out. Just because you don't get positive feedback or acknowledgement, it doesn't mean you are bad at being compassionate and caring. But were you ever 'cold and ruthless' though? or do you just feel that way?

It really upsets me when my friends don't show appreciation for what I do for them, sometimes they don't listen, sometimes they do and it helps them, but I can't be sure, so I end up feeling like I'm not good at being a caring friend, Like I'm just wasting my time.

Just do what you think is right Steiner, but a part of you will never stop being
'compassionate and caring' and maybe this is who you really are, and that 'cold and ruthless' person is something you want to change to, but is really not you.