The saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover," can sometimes be misleading because, from a book cover, one can tell, if not exactly, at least something about what the book might hold. With humans, what people see is our actions, not the intentions behind those actions. One might have a very good heart, but when talking, she speaks so freely without knowing that she is hurting other people's feelings with her jokes. The person might not actually take it as a joke because she is only hearing the words and not seeing the heart of her friend.
This can also happen between two friends, where one is constantly checking up on the other, but the other is not. In the heart of the other person, she isn't the media type but prefers physical interaction. So, whether the other person calls or not, they are still cool. The friend who keeps calling, however, might see it as a sign that the other friend is no longer interested in the friendship.
This explains how two individuals can be friends yet not have a good understanding of each other. Therefore, being mindful of how one speak to strangers and even to people who are not very close to us should be observed, so as not to be misunderstood.
First impressions matter. Naturally, the Bible says we should not judge. But between strangers, it is very easy to notice something that might not sit well with us and then conclude that the stranger is that way. Surprisingly, after getting to know the person, you might realise that he or she has a sweet soul.
Being too judgemental can also be based on personality, though I wouldn't say it is necessarily a belief. Some people are naturally judgemental, perhaps because of how they grew up and the influence of their environment. Others are so free-spirited that they rarely draw conclusions about someone else unless that person gives them reasons to do so.
Without being sentimental, we should treat people the way we would love them to treat us. If we are harsh or mean during our first meeting with someone, that person might conclude that it is simply our nature. Sometimes, all we need is a little more understanding before reaching a conclusion about someone. We may see the actions, but we don't always know the intentions behind them. We may hear the words, but we cannot see the heart from which they come.
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