Wayne Dyer once said, "When you judge another, you do not define them. You define yourself."


A first impression is only a moment in time out of a persons entire life. It is simply not fair to judge that persons character based on an isolated moment in time. If we judge someone solely on the way they look, talk, or dress, it only goes to show how shallow we are in our own thinking.



It can be very tempting to try and build our own self esteem by putting others down based on their appearance and/or demeanor. Who are we to consider ourselves above another? We are all imperfect human beings.

The Golden Rule, found in Matthew 7:12 says, "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you". In others words do not treat people in a way that you would not want to be treated, and that is to be judged on first impressions. For example, someone could catch you at a bad time, whether you're losing your temper, dressed in your most unflattering clothing, or just plain being rude to someone. Does this mean that you're always in a bad mood, or always looking rough? Of course not.

My parents have rightly taught me that every individual is made in the image of God and therefore should be treated with dignity and respect. We all have strengths and weaknesses, and gifts and talents which can be used to serve others. Therefore, each individual has something to contribute towards the human race as a whole. We need each other!
In conclusion, let's commit ourselves to looking past first impressions. Instead, we should try to get to know a person's character and what is in their heart. Who knows what could come out of it. Someone who we may have been dismissed out of hand could turn into a life long friend.