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.