You’re Making a Lasting Impression | Filed under General
The memories I have of my father are all very special, he was a very gentle, kind and loving man. Small in stature he was but a large heart he had one of the earliest memories I have was of us taking gifts to families less fortunate at Christmas. He was a volunteer fireman, deacon in the church, member of the Lions Club, World War II Vet, the list goes on but most of all he was my daddy which to me was the most important thing in the world and always called me Sug.
He talked little but accomplished more than many knew or was even aware this came out when he died My dad’s act of kindness toward people and his desire to make our little town a better place is still imprinted on my mind. And I believe that my own conduct has been significantly shaped by my dad. My dad made a lasting impression on me in another way as well. You see, social or economic status meant very little to my father.
He didn’t gravitate to those with fancy titles. He seemed just as interested in speaking to waiters and the people who swept the floors. He respected everyone and looked down on nobody. And again, my dad’s conduct helped to influence the way that I deal with people to this day.
Here are a few things to consider if you want to make a lasting impression and be a positive influence on others:
1. Recognize the paradox. We don’t usually make a lasting impression when we’re trying to do so. Rather, it happens when we’re just living our lives and doing what may seem like ordinary, everyday things. Sure, there are some who make an enduring impact through great achievement or by being a celebrity. But lasting impressions are not reserved for famous people like Oprah Winfrey or Michael Jordan.
They’re available to you and me - every day, every moment. As I look back, I can’t remember a time when my dad sat down with me and said, “Here’s how you should treat people.” I simply observed how he lived his life. So, too, people are watching your life, whether you realize it or not. This is true in all the life roles you play - be it parent, child, employee, business owner, etc.
2. Live each moment consciously. While we can’t plan those encounters or situations that will create lasting impressions, we can be more aware of our behavior and the potential influence it may have. Too often, we live our lives on “automatic pilot,” that is, we do things out of habit without realizing the effect our actions might have on others. In many of these instances, our behavior does not match what we declare to be our values. For instance, you may think that you are “open-minded” and then catch yourself being intolerant of someone with different viewpoints.
Starting today, right now, realize that every interaction you have is precious. As author Dan Millman often says, “there are no ordinary moments.” With this in mind, you can consciously choose, for example, to be honest, kind and to give your best efforts at all times.
So, the next time you’re about to do something, ask yourself: What action would I take right now if I knew my behavior would have a lasting effect on someone? This isn’t about being perfect. There will always be times when we behave in ways that we’re not proud of. Yet, as you realize the impact of your day-to-day conduct, you’ll find yourself making different choices.
3. Appreciate the ripple effect. It’s hard to fathom the consequences of the lasting impressions we make. When my father asked that young boy whether he wanted some ice cream, he was affecting me–as well as everyone who would eventually come into contact with me–forever! Isn’t that incredible?
Yet, it’s not an exaggeration. My dad’s act helped to shape my character, which in turn affects the way that I have dealt with people in the 40 years since that event. Furthermore, the people who I have met may have been affected and have passed along those values to others they have met. It’s an endless cycle. Thus, there are no small acts in this world. One simple act can truly change the course of humanity.
In the end, you’re going to make many lasting impressions, whether you want to or not. It’s up to you whether the messages you send are positive or negative. As you go through your day today, give a little extra consideration to how you speak and how you act. You just may be making an impression that will endure for generations.
I have really been thinking a lot about my dad because Christmas Eve was the anniversary of his burial. The good thing is the memories were so good and I so many people have told me just what an Impression he made of them. I want to have than impact on people and I imagine many of you do as well. Do you have someone who has made a lasting g Impression on you? If so share it with us at Always Victoria, please.
Hath thy heart sunshine? shed it wide;
The weary world hath need of thee.
Doth bitterness within abide?
Shut fast thy door, and hold the key.
Priscilla Leonard
The greatest gift we can give one another is
rapt attention to one another’s existence.
Sue Atchley Ebaugh
January 6th, 2005 at 12:38 am
Listen carefully.
Here that BOOM?
That’s the sound of you hitting the target dead center with this one.
-G
January 6th, 2005 at 3:41 am
Again, a glorious and oh-so-true post. Your Father sounds like he was a wonderI man. I agree with you that “one simple act can truly change the course of humanity.” You prove that your act is always offered with kindness and grace.
Thank you for you…..
I have come to say “Hello, Michele sent me.” Yes, Sweet N Sassy YOU are it, but then for many people you always have been it.
January 6th, 2005 at 3:45 am
Michele sent me!
Good post and on the mark.
January 6th, 2005 at 4:20 am
Hello! Michele sent me!
And I also want to say that this was a *beautiful* post! Thank you for sharing with us!
January 6th, 2005 at 4:24 am
Hello! Michele sent me!
Great site! Beautiful post! Thank you so much for sharing! (I hope this comment makes it this time, not sure what I did wrong last time!):shock:
January 6th, 2005 at 5:00 am
Deep stuff.
@
p.s.
Michele Sent me.
January 6th, 2005 at 5:03 am
deep stuff.
@
p.s.
michele sent me
January 6th, 2005 at 5:54 am
What an inspiring and refreshing post! Yes, we all want to make an impact on many others , and for this we have to care for the words that we impart and actions that we take as we may never know what imprints they will leave on those who are on the receiving end.
You have just made a lasting impression on me.
Michele sent me and for that I am thankful. This site is wonderful and I will certainly be coming back.
January 6th, 2005 at 5:57 am
hmmm, I just left a comment and it seems to have been lost….
January 6th, 2005 at 6:51 am
Hello, Michele sent me. Wow, you’re so right, especially about the paradox. Though I do think you do have to make an effort to be there for people, which isn’t really the same thing. Great site!
January 6th, 2005 at 7:11 am
I’m not going to try to say something witty here. Because if I use your theory, and I try, you won’t remember me.
P.S. Michele sent me.
January 6th, 2005 at 7:12 am
Ok. That was weird. I went to go hit a comment, didn’t know where it went and realized the whole layout had changed. Freaky. Anyway, I’m not going to try and impress you bc I’m following your theory and not trying to stand out. Did it work?
BTW, Michele sent me.:)
January 6th, 2005 at 7:18 am
You made a lasting impression on me, because you are so kind, and smart!
I’m really happy to have you as a friend, Sweet N Sassy!
If you are coming from Michele’s great blog to say hi, commenting here at “Always Victoria” is moderated to stop spam, even if it does not say so in her pop-up comment window, so there will be a delay between when you post your comment and when it shows up here.
I come here anyway because you are my friend, but I’m gona say this for Michele. Hi, Michele sent me!
I hope you have a great day, Sweet N Sassy!
January 6th, 2005 at 8:00 am
Hi Michele sent me, I love your site, and your post truly touched me thankyou!
January 6th, 2005 at 8:01 am
Hi, Michele sent me. I love your site, and your words truly touched me!
January 6th, 2005 at 8:12 am
Hi there Victoria, Michele sent me!
This is a lovely tribute, and beautiful words to remember. Thank you for sharing. 
January 6th, 2005 at 8:48 am
What a lovely post, and so very true. I’m glad your memories of your dad are so sweet.
And hello, Michele sent me. She seems to be a blogger following in your father’s footsteps!
January 6th, 2005 at 9:08 am
Another wonderful post and it’s wonderful to hear about your Dad and the affect of his life on you.
I do think the best compliment one can give to another is their attention. See each person you deal with as an individual. Ask their name and call them by it in conversation. Listen to what people say. Really listen.
That is the way to honor, respect and love people. It changes lives and makes this world a better place for all of us.
Thanks for the lift, Vickie! **Hugss**
January 6th, 2005 at 9:14 am
Hi Sweet n Sassy!
I come by here alot anyway but today Michele sent me! 
January 6th, 2005 at 9:16 am
Hey, lovely blog. Michele sent me!
January 6th, 2005 at 9:21 am
You’re so right! I try very hard to think about what I do and say, because the ripples can go far. Every action has a reaction…and a consequence. I wish more people were like you.
January 6th, 2005 at 9:42 am
Michele sent me! I love your essay, it’s very human, sweet, what we all need to hear.
January 6th, 2005 at 9:42 am
hello. michele sent me! Very pretty blog.
January 6th, 2005 at 9:48 am
Michele sent me, and I’m so glad she did. A beautiful tribute.
January 6th, 2005 at 10:01 am
Wow!
Thank you.
By the way, just wanted to say hi and that Michele sent me.
*waves*
January 6th, 2005 at 10:32 am
Hi there! Michele sent me. Thanks for such an inspirational post.
January 6th, 2005 at 10:35 am
Michele sent me
January 6th, 2005 at 11:07 am
Out of all the places Michele has sent us, your post is probably the best written and the most right on I have ever read. Thank you.
January 6th, 2005 at 11:08 am
wow!
Oh and the lovely Michele sent me
January 6th, 2005 at 11:22 am
I would have liked to know your father. You were lucky to have him.
I hope that I can influence my son the way your dad influenced you.
Thanks.
P.S. Michele sent me!
January 6th, 2005 at 11:24 am
What a beautiful post. It’s always good to be reminded.
Michele sent me.
January 6th, 2005 at 11:24 am
Lovely post, V.
January 6th, 2005 at 11:25 am
Yes, Michele did send me. What a lovely post!
January 6th, 2005 at 11:26 am
Syncronicity. The past few days, my blogging has been a bit sparse. Yesterday was my wife’s grandfather’s funeral. He was a WW II vet and a volunteer fireman.
At the wake, members of the VFW showed up followed by the whole volunteer fire department showed up in uniform. It was very moving.
So, normally, I would say, Michele sent me, but today, it is not only Michele, but also Grandpa Joe that sent me.
January 6th, 2005 at 11:37 am
Hey V, I just nominated you over at the 2005 Bloggies. Hard to find the right category, so I put you up in the “Best-Kept-Secret” category. They don’t show you who has been nominated by others. I encourage others to do the same.
January 6th, 2005 at 11:38 am
nice site…the subject matter isn’t quite my style, but i like the layout and the skins. a lot of work has been put into it…
since the whole point of michele’s “Michele Sent Me” game is expose people to all kinds of blogs, i’m glad i stopped by
January 6th, 2005 at 12:00 pm
Hi! Michele sent me.
Very beautiful words!
January 6th, 2005 at 12:12 pm
I was going to ask you why you aren’t a teacher, then I realized that you are.
You are such a ray of light in this world. Thank you for yet another inspirational post.
January 6th, 2005 at 1:02 pm
Michele sent me, and I’m glad she did. Thanks for the reminder of what the human spirit is all about.
January 6th, 2005 at 1:05 pm
Hello Sweet N Sassy, Michele sent me. What a lovely post! I look forward to reading more. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me.
January 6th, 2005 at 1:27 pm
Such a wonderful post… I wish everyone had such wonderful memories of their father and mother too. Michele of course sent me and I’m glad she did.
January 6th, 2005 at 1:38 pm
Hi ..What a beautiful post..I’m glad Michele sent me..Have a nice day
January 6th, 2005 at 1:47 pm
Michele sent me.
Very beautiful post. It’s amazing how much difference a first impression can make.
January 6th, 2005 at 1:53 pm
Wow all the comments! They left me with little to say except thank you!
January 6th, 2005 at 1:58 pm
Amid the chaos and frustration of the day, thanks for making me stop and think about how I’m living my life.
Cheers
Oh, and Michele sent me
January 6th, 2005 at 2:11 pm
I’m so very happy Michele sent me Victoria.
I went out to dinner with my dad last night and this post has really reminded me how amazing fathers can be.
January 6th, 2005 at 2:33 pm
Hello, Michele sent me! I enjoyed my visit - that was a wonderful post!
January 6th, 2005 at 3:54 pm
Wow. What a beautiful post. And what wonderful advice. Thanks for sharing!
PS - Michele sent me!
January 6th, 2005 at 4:14 pm
Hello Michele sent me! Beautiful blog
January 6th, 2005 at 5:16 pm
Well said, well written and obviously, well thought out.
Good stuff
January 6th, 2005 at 5:41 pm
A lovely post.
BTW, Michele sent me. Happy New Year!
January 6th, 2005 at 5:45 pm
i believe in the ripple effect. i wish more people did.
via michele
January 6th, 2005 at 5:51 pm
I’d like to share all the people who’ve made a lasting impression on me…but the list would be pages and pages long, as nearly everyone I come in contact with has something to teach me.
Hello, Michelle sent me!
January 6th, 2005 at 6:05 pm
Michele sent me. And I’m glad she did!
January 6th, 2005 at 6:59 pm
Hi there…
I posted about my father today as well. Thanks for your thoughts.
ps Michelle sent me.
January 6th, 2005 at 7:11 pm
Hello! Michele sent me.
Your post has made me miss my dad. Seems like they would have gotten along.
January 6th, 2005 at 7:12 pm
Well said. BTW, Michele sent me.
January 6th, 2005 at 8:20 pm
Atta gurl, xlnt post V.
I’d say Michele sent me, but I drop on your doorstep all the time!
January 6th, 2005 at 8:42 pm
great post.. and it mirrors many of the things that i have posted about on my blog too..
great to feel the connection here, will come back soon !
oh anf michele sent me.
January 6th, 2005 at 9:23 pm
what a great, wonderful dad you had, thanks for sharing.
i’m glad i came. michele sent me.
January 6th, 2005 at 9:35 pm
Hello! Michele sent me!
January 6th, 2005 at 9:38 pm
Hi, Michele sent me. I love the array of skins you’ve got and this was a great post.
You asked that, if we have one, we share someone who has made a lasting impression on us. For me, that person is my mom.
She’s still alive and I’d be lying if I said that I always remember how special she is and how important she is to me when I’m in the midst of a frustrating situation with her…like we are now, actually. All mothers can make us forget that at times!
But there is no one else who has left as big a mark upon who I am and who I most want to make proud of me and be like.
January 6th, 2005 at 10:38 pm
Michele sent me this time, but ordinarily I visit on my own. What a lovely tribute! Thank you for sharing.
January 6th, 2005 at 10:59 pm
Oh my goodness. I think I may have to link to this in one of my upcoming posts! It’s right on target for the topic! Oh, and the lovely Michele sent me, but of course, I would have been here anyway. But still, she’s lovely that way, isn’t she?
January 6th, 2005 at 11:13 pm
Beautifully touching and well written.
I’m glad Michele sent me.
January 6th, 2005 at 11:25 pm
hello! the lovely MICHELE sent me!!
January 6th, 2005 at 11:39 pm
WOW Michele sent me and this is a great blog. HELLO:smile:
January 6th, 2005 at 11:39 pm
Nice nice nice…Michele sent me
January 7th, 2005 at 12:36 am
I believe I found you via Greg at California Hammonds whom I also just found….excellent post. Reminds me of my wonderful short statured Gramps….everyone loved him, they could not help themselves. We do need to practice the things they taught us…and follow in the footsteps of our Messiah in so doing! Thanks for a great post! You did have a WONDERFUL dad and most are not so fortunate!
Elizabeth
January 7th, 2005 at 12:51 am
Hello! Stopping by cuz Michele sent me!!
January 7th, 2005 at 12:54 am
You hit the nail on the head.
BTW the Other “Michele” with one L sent me.
January 7th, 2005 at 1:47 am
What a prize post, Victoria. Pay It Forward, indeed. You’ve poured enough inspiration into this blogger’s heart to cause her to sing. And to think I’ve never spied your lovely blog before. Hello, Michele sent me, but I’ll be sending myself back on my own. Thank you for sharing yourself with us.
January 7th, 2005 at 12:41 pm
Linky Luv Hunny
It’s been awhile since I’ve done any linky luv ala hunny style. So here it goes! Some sites I found quite enticing this week! A Day In The Life… - that Roscoe sure is darn cute! No Guy I’m not…
January 7th, 2005 at 5:11 pm
Testing a comment with the correct authorization code - this should go directly into your comments.
January 9th, 2005 at 1:41 am
I enjoyed returning to this post. It is outstanding.
January 12th, 2005 at 12:00 am
Michele sent me. When I tried to comment, I couldn’t but wanted to let you know that I appreciated your post!