I agree with both of you. If I could somehow not charge people anything I would be very happy because I would not have to deal with my conscience or people complaining about prices. But that's not reality. I have bills to pay and there are very few of us who can work for nothing.
Part of being in business for yourself is learning to deal with these issues. You have to "grow a thicker skin" and believe that you have to charge what you do in order to stay in business, support your family, pay your bills and maybe put a little away for retirement.
Now, there is nothing wrong with doing "pro bono" work every once in a while for worthwhile customers, that can be good for business. But you can't do that all the time. At some point you will have to draw the line and refuse to work for those that can't or are unwilling to pay the going rate. You have to focus your efforts where you will make a decent profit.
It's either them or you, and you are entitled to make a living.
-Hal
[This message has been edited by hbiss (edited 06-05-2004).]
