When you think of other people, what comes to your mind? Do you think of things that person did or will do?  Do you think of things that person said to you?  What comes to mind?  Take a look at a quote by Maya Angelou, an American author, poet, dancer, actress, and singer:

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou –

Do you agree? When I think back on people from my past, my first impression is how I feel when I think of that person.  For instance, some memories of people bring a smile.  Others, a feeling of regret, or dread, or sadness.  Take this challenge…. Think of your first grade teacher.  Is your first thought of what he/she said or did?  Or, do you think of how you felt being her student.  I believe the Angelou quote above.  I think our strongest remembrance of people is something deeper than their words or their deeds.  It is that feeling – whether positive or negative – that makes that first impression.

So, the next question, of course, is to consider that imprint we are leaving on those with whom we interact. What do others “feel” when they think of you?  According to Angelou, they probably don’t remember all the things you did or the words you said, but they will remember how you made them feel.  Is your imprint on others a positive one or is it negative?  It is not too late today to begin making that imprint a positive one.

Thanks for all you do! There is a chance that today could be our very best yet!  You just never know when that day might come, so be ready for it!