How did the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, view people?

The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, was modest in gaze, his eyes cast down towards the earth more often than towards the sky. Most of his looking was for observation. He would balance his looking with listening to those who spoke to him. He was always cheerful, easygoing, and gentle. He would not disparage anyone, nor reproach them, nor seek out their faults. He would only speak about matters from which he hoped for reward. When he spoke, those sitting with him would lower their gaze as if birds were perched on their heads, and when he was silent, they would speak, never contending in his presence. His silence was for four reasons: forbearance, caution, evaluation, and contemplation.