Impressions

As I have been walking the neighborhood recently, it was fun to think about how I met some of my neighbors. Each situation was completely different, some humorous, others not so humorous. One neighbor who lives a few houses down is a state cop. We had just moved into our house, which has a security system. We decided to continue paying for it, as it also ties into our fire system. One day the system went off, and I was able to get it reset. However, the security company called to let me know the cops had already been dispatched. I figured it might be a few minutes, but not a minute later my son, who was home sick that day, said "Mommy...there's a policeman with a gun". I looked out the back door, and crouched beside our back steps was a policeman with gun in hand, posed and ready for action. As soon as he saw me, he realized I wasn't a threat, put the gun away, and introduced himself as our neighbor down the street. What an interesting way to meet for the first time!
Another neighbor introduced herself on Halloween night, and asked us to trick or treat with them. That was great, except it was difficult to recognize her kids the next time, since I knew them as the Hulk and Spider Man.
Another neighbor used to "sheriff" our roads, and she called me to tell me I was driving over the speed limit (the speed limit is 15 mph). Even though she introduced herself, it was followed by nasty words, and yelling. She's definitely not my favorite person to this day. And yes, I have really tried to slow down from my nascar speed of 23 mph, down to 15.
We met other neighbors in passing, the normal introductions taking place. But what this reminded me is how impressions stay with us......they never leave us. I wonder what first impressions, or unimpressions I've made with people over the years? That's a scary question. I'm glad I serve a God of love and grace, who cares only about our hearts, and His impression being made on our lives.