I’m in favor or second and third chances. Maybe, because I’ve been the beneficiary of second and third chances more than once. Well, more than twice.
“How many, Ray? Let’s be honest,” said Y.
I roll my eyes. Honestly, I’m not a trouble maker. Somehow, growing up, trouble seemed to find me. I could be down by the river far enough away I couldn’t hear my dad or mom call me to do chores. What is wrong with that? I didn’t know it, but I was finding my peaceful place.
“You want me to tell you what was wrong with that?”
“Why?”
“You finally got it right.”
“Leave, I’m writing a serious blog.”
“Can I have another chance?”
“Oh, you are such a manipulator.”
“And, good at it, Ray.”
“It could have been when I was in the Army and left a day early on weekend pass. The First Sergeant only ripped me a new one, if you know what I mean. He gave me a second chance.”
“I don’t. Can you be explicit?”
“It’s a family blog.”
“I’m giving you a second chance, Ray.”
“A second chance for what?”
“Being a bit more sensitive to the characters you create. Once we’re created, we have our own life. I don’t like being threatened, erased, put on a shelf, deposited in a digital file.”
“What did I do to deserve you?”
“Beat me. It’s like winning the Powerball, Ray. Come on, turn up those corners. Unclench the fists, pry open your jaw. That’s better. Now take a deep breath and breath out slowly.”
“You’re not my life coach.”
“You need one. Can I have a second chance?”
We all need second chances.
We all make mistakes, saw the wrong things. Hurt others. Second chances are another word for forgiveness, letting go of hurts, and working to rebuild a stronger relationship. I like second chances and third chances.