The Power of First Impressions

First impressions can be powerful, and sometimes they reveal far more than small talk ever could. Recently, I had the pleasure of spending time with my daughter-in-law Gaby’s grandparents, Gladys and Francisco, during their visit to the United States. It was a meaningful visit for our family, especially because it was the first time our granddaughter Izzy met her great-grandmother. We made sure to capture the occasion with photographs so we could remember it for years to come.

One of the things Brenda and I love most about Gaby and her family is their faith in God. They live it out every day, and several members of the family have also served through mission work in Argentina.

When I first met Francisco during his visit last year, it did not take long to understand where that faith comes from.

Last year, our then 33-year-old son decided to play church league soccer with some of his friends. At one of his games, Brenda and I met Francisco for the first time. Francisco is well into his eighties and no longer walks as easily as he once did. But as soon as he got out of the car and shook our hands, he began telling us about Jesus in his native Spanish. There was no small talk and no hesitation. Francisco led with what mattered most to him. Neither Brenda nor I spoke Spanish, and Francisco did not speak English, but it did not matter. He knew his assignment was to share his faith with everyone he met. Of all the things Francisco has passed down to his family, his faith is clearly the most important, and it is a legacy that will continue for generations.

This year, his wife Gladys was able to join him. She is one of the sweetest great-grandmothers we have ever met, and she bonded with Izzy immediately. Even with the language barrier, the love shared among their family spoke louder than words ever could.

This faithful couple has influenced not only their family, but many others through the example they set. In my case, I took it as a great compliment that this man, whom I had never met before, cared enough about my eternity to ask about my relationship with Jesus before anything else was said. That was his first priority, and it left a lasting impression.

In a world that often feels dark and distracted, Gladys and Francisco stand out as lights. It is truly a pleasure to know them.

Gladys and Francisco

0 Comments

No Event too Small!

August 18, 2026

Bride holding a bouquet of purple flowers outdoors in a white lace wedding dress

What is a Keepsake?

August 10, 2026

Now is the perfect time to update family photos!

August 4, 2026

A Special Visit!

July 22, 2026

Subscribe to our blog!

Please provide your email below to get the latest news and updates from us

This form is protected by reCAPTCHA to prevent spam and abuse. Information collected may be processed for security purposes.

Thank you for contacting us!

We have received your message and will contact you shortly

View Submission