One step closer... Options

[*mona lisa*]

Why is it so important to get to know someone well before passing judgement? (Perhaps judgement isn't the proper term...) Hypothetically speaking, that would be great. I'd love to get to know all of you very well but who has that much time? First (or current, whatever) impressions are not completely useless and this impression can be based on interactions with yourself and others, whether they be in person or online. Someone's attitude with you will most likely be different from the attitude with another being as most of us, if not all, are guilty of being subjective.

It may be due to personality traits and differences that all this happens; I can't be too sure. However, to get to know someone, honesty and communication from both sides are key.

[*Duchess of Dork*]

First impressions are just that, first impressions. Sometimes they're right, sometimes they're wrong.

Sometimes people just change. So at one point your first impression was spot on, then later, it's not because either you have changed or they have changed.

Communication is fundamental in any relationship, be it casual or otherwise. Particularly in online interactions. I've said it before and I'll state it again: Context is tragically lost on the internet. Sure, a smilie here or a "o.O" type of expression there may give the idea that something is to be taken lightly, or in jest or perhaps to make it clear that someone is angry or frustrated. It doesn't tell you everything though.

Also, judging does, at first glance seem to be harsh but it is the truth. It's what we do and it's human nature to do so. That doesn't mean we should go off on someone or anything of the like. I think that judgement is closely related to impression.

All we can do is just be ourselves and hope to not get into much conflict with another. You don't have to like someone to respect them.