Schmucks don't ask for second chances...

I've done a lot of things that would make people cringe. When I think about my past I can't help but wish away certain moments. Then I remember that my Second Chance has brought me to here and now.

"Back then I used to tell the world “I’m Mike, the baddest man on the planet”, now I look at that Mike and say, “Hey Mike, you’re a schmuck”."

That quote is taken directly from Mike Tyson's twitter feed. This week in the "Never Beyond" poster series, we have Mike Tyson. To many he is only known for his face tattoo, role in the Hangover, or various crimes. To me, he is a living breathing second chance.



I wasn't sure if I was going to write a blog this week, because I have nothing but respect for Mike Tyson, so why would I need to write about that? Then, when I read the above quote on his twitter feed, I couldn't stay silent. Second chances aren't asked for by schmucks. People don't change unless they try.

According to Schmuck U the definition of schmuck is "
Schmuck, a Yiddish word, has a range of meaning depending on context. In its most innocuous use, a schmuck is a person who does a stupid thing, in which case "dumb schmuck" is the appropriate expression.

A schmuck's behavior ranges from pesky and inconsiderate, to obnoxious and manipulative. A schmuck's personality type ranges from jerk to bastard.

Schmucky behavior also falls within a range of intentionality. Some schmucks carefully plan their bad behavior, some only a little, and some not at all. For example, the bastard may spend considerable time planning his bad deeds. In contrast, the dumb schmuck and the pesky behave badly without any forethought."

While the definition is meant to make people laugh, I think it says a lot about who Mike is NOT. He is not a schmuck. He has owned what he has done and moved on to the future. He is a person of Second Chances. He is an inspiration to those of us who think ourselves a "schmuck". Mike Tyson helps to remind me of my Second Chance and inspires me to not look at myself as a schmuck, but admire the person I am today. I hope he can do that as well.



This post is part of a new initiative by People of the Second Chance (POTSC). POTSC is launching the NEVER BEYOND Poster Series: 25 posters representing well known historical, current and fictional characters who are believed to have harmed society. This campaign consists of digital and print posters and the full collection will eventually be displayed as a touring art exhibit.

Someday you'll thank me...

I remember the first time that my mom said that to me. "Someday you'll thank me". The first time that I said that to my son, I called my mom and thanked her. My mom taught me a lot about life and love and what being a true Christian was. She taught me a lot about grace and disappointment and trust. She taught me to give people the benefit of the doubt and to treat everyone fairly and equally.

What she probably doesn't realize is that she's the first person who taught me about second chances. When I was thirteen I lied to my mom about where I was going and who I was going with to the event. I went bowling and didn't have a ride home and had to call a family friend. When I got home, my mom questioned me and I tried to lie. She had me write out the definition of "integrity". The next day, my lies were forgotten and her trust in me returned. As far as I can remember I never really abused that trust again, at least intentionally.

Saying all that brings me to this. I love second chances. It makes ME feel renewed to be able to give them to others. It helps me cleanse myself. When I heard about the organization People of the Second Chance, I was in love. Grace is such a beautiful thing. When I read about the new campaign they were starting called "Never Beyond" I was practically jumping up and down in my seat! I love the idea of thinking about who we would or wouldn't give second chances to.





When I saw who the first week of the posters was, at first I was confused. I didn't recognize this face. I'm not much on pop culture anymore. It was Casey Anthony. I will admit that I know little about her story except what I read on twitter. I remember the day they read the verdict because that's all anyone could talk about. It seemed that the new motto for our justice system was not "innocent until proven guilty" it was "the public gets to decide if you're guilty".

As a parent I was sad to hear the story. Devastated at the loss of the life of a beautiful little girl. I was also devastated that we as a nation were judge and jury to a woman we didn't know. Casey is in need of a second chance.

I'll admit, when I saw her name, I immediately thought of all the people in my life who would be upset if I defended Casey in any way. People who would be appalled that I could let a "child murderer" "get away with it". But Casey is in need of that chance. I'm not her judge or jury. I can only offer her the love of Christ.

Maybe I'll make enemies by saying that even Casey Anthony deserves a Second Chance, but I know the definition of integrity and it requires that when asked the question "Who would you give a second chance?" I would wholeheartedly say "Casey Anthony"

(Thanks mom)

This post is part of a new initiative by People of the Second Chance (POTSC). POTSC is launching the NEVER BEYOND Poster Series: 25 posters representing well known historical, current and fictional characters who are believed to have harmed society. This campaign consists of digital and print posters and the full collection will eventually be displayed as a touring art exhibit.