Millions of people from around the world have seen and heard Susan Boyle, a frumpy, 47 year old, overweight woman with caterpillar eyebrows who wowed the judges with her performance in the auditions for Britain's Got Talent, singing I Dreamed A Dream from Les Miserable. If you've seen the Scottish volunteer church worker, you may have had the same initial reaction to her that I did. I didn't expect much from her becuase of her appearance. She looks so ordinary.
The fact is that most of us "ordinary" people (including me) make up their minds about other people based on their first observations of them. Think about how many people you pass each day who look "uncool." Because of their unattractive appearance, you assume that certain people are not worth your time or that you would not enjoy becoming a friend to them.
Think about your prejudice as you watch the video (available via YouTube). After watching it, think about whether you should reconsider your opinion of anyone you pass by today. (I have.) Now, think about how many opportunities you have missed because of your prejudice. Then, decide to refrain from judging anyone from their appearance alone. You'll benefit from the change. I know I will.
By Wayne Harvey, Director of Missions, Santa Fe Baptist Association
