Second Chances

Ever heard the adage,"You never get a second chance on life?" We probably all have at some point. While that is true, we have been afforded the opportunity at a "second life." There is not a person alive who hasn't regretted some time in their life or something they have done. WHen others say they have no regrets, I find that admirable for the positive thinking, but not entirely accurate.

For me, that time was college. Growing up in a strict and conservative Southern Baptist household, I was not only not privy to a lot of social extremes, but unaware they even existed at my school. I was totally focused on getting grades and playing baseball. I graduated valedictorian and earned several scholarships(academic, not athletic)! I joined a fraternity right away and dove into that lifestyle. I didn't attend church or class much, but never missed a frat basketball or volleyball game. Going to class might mean I would miss some hazing of the pledges (oops, did I say hazing?????) Needless to say I graduated with a GPA high enough to graduate and to earn my commission as an officer in the Army.

Why tell you all this? Well, I have harbored a lot of regret and weight for years since finishing college for underperforming. I felt I could have done so many great things had I just simply done at college, what I did my whole life up to that point. I came to a point late last year when I finally turned that guilt over to God. What He showed me was that I had everything I needed: a tremendous supportive wife, three awesome, good-natured, caring children, a safe house in a good neighborhood, a job that allows me to save, and a church home that allows me to grow spiritually. Had I not joined ROTC in college or gotten a different degree, I wouldn't have met Laura or led the life I have lived since college. I felt terrible for looking past all that wishing I had done things differently for so long.

Right afterwards, Laura and I decided that I should apply to graduate school. So I studied for 3 months for the GMAT. (Do you ever realize how much you have forgotten?). I took the test, filled out the paperwork and should find out in the next week or so whether I will be admitted to the WSU graduate program. This is my second chance.

Not everyone has a chance to change things. I didn't either. I can't change those previous 4 years. However, I can accept the blessings God has bestowed upon me and use the gifts He has given me. If we haven't done this before, this is our chance.

In the end, we are held accountable for how we use our gifts and blessings. So, in our second life let's ensure we take advantage of our second chances.