Everywhere we go and everyone we meet will in some way or another be changed by our presence. The question is, "What kind of impression will we leave?"
I've met people in my lifetime who've brought nothing but stress, negativity and discord into my life. The very mention of their name could make my skin crawl. Over the years I've come to a place of forgiveness where they are concerned. But you know, one has to wonder if any amount of good they do now will ever be taken at face value. I mean, all their lives they used manipulation tactics to get what they wanted. It didn't matter who they hurt in the process. And even though they say they've changed, can all of that ever truly be forgotten by those who were hurt in the crossfire? Possibly. But I assure you it will take time and a lot of hard work to make those memories fade.
When I think of this, I am reminded that I need to take a daily evaluation of my own life. I don't want people to remember me in a negative light. I want my presence to have brought them some kind of joy, inspiration, happiness, etc. I want my life to have made a difference for the better. And isn't that what we should all want? Shouldn't our passing through their lives leave a residue that will linger a lifetime in their fondest memories? Shouldn't the mention of our name bring a smile?
"Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue, but with actions and in truth. " 1 John 3:18
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interest of others." Phillipians 2:3-4
